Teaching your child how to ‘read’ dogs body language is the first step. There are terrific resources to be found on the internet like this poster from ‘Stop the 77’. Their website also provides a range of videos to help you talk with your kids about dog safe behaviours.

‘Family Paws’ also has several resources for families from videos to colouring in pages. Grumble and Growl zones are an effective way to talk to children about safe petting and dog play. Do you have a space for your dog in the house where it can go for a break? This needs to be a child free zone. An open crate can be a safe child free zone for the dog to have a quiet rest area.

Victor and Victoria's Pet Town has been developed by the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions to help young children learn about responsible pet ownership and living safely with dogs. It covers a range of topics including how to approach and greet a dog. The website includes online game to guide children through pet safe behaviours.