There are a few breeds of notoriously aggressive dogs such as the Pit Bulls that can attack children, but dogs of other breeds may show aggressiveness toward children. Children can unintentionally trigger aggressiveness. A child should be taught how to play and deal with a dog, to avoid canine attacks.
1. Choosing the Dog
When choosing the dog you should also consider if they are suitable for children. There are a few dogs that are more suitable for families with children. Don't choose dogs that have a low tolerance level. Child friendly dogs are smart and have a medium energy level.
2. Understand Aggressiveness Triggers
Both you and your children should understand what triggers aggressiveness in dogs. Dogs tend to be aggressive when they are afraid, when their territory is being invaded or when they want to impose their dominance. You should teach your children to avoid situations that can trigger aggressiveness and play safe.
3. Recognize Signs of Aggressiveness
You will also have to teach your children how to recognize the signs of aggressiveness. When the dog is about to become aggressive he may growl, his ears will pin back and the tail will be in an upright position. These are all warning signs to back off and should not be disregarded. When these signs occur, you or your children should refrain from enticing the dog more. The children should be taught to keep calm, as dogs may become aggressive if they sense fear. Then, they should use a calm tone of voice and remove the possible factor that has triggered the dog's reaction.
4. Respect the Dog
The children should be taught to respect the dog. Many times dogs become aggressive and bite when being ill treated by children.
5. No Rough Games
Rough games are off the table if you want to avoid aggressive behavior from your dog. Children may play rough games without even realizing. You should teach your children that some games are not appropriate. Tug games should also be avoided both by children and adults, as they may lead to accidental bites.
6. Supervise Your Children
If your children are too small to understand how to play with the dog, you should keep an eye on them at all times. Toddlers don't know how to treat dogs and will not learn, even if you show them.
7. Dog Training
Training your dog is equally important. A well trained dog is less likely to become aggressive and bite children. Obedience classes should be started as early as possible. It is not a good idea to get a dog at the same time as your baby is born. You most likely won't be able to manage both at the same time and accidents can happen. If you still want to get a dog, you should get an adult that has been already trained and is comfortable with children.
Even if you don't have children, it is important to have your dog trained, as it may harm another person's children.