Dogs are part of the family in many California households. They offer companionship, love, and protection. But even the friendliest dogs can bite if they feel scared, startled, or threatened, especially around children. Each year, thousands of kids end up in emergency rooms across the country due to dog bites, and California consistently ranks among the top states for dog bite claims.
In fact, according to data from the Insurance Information Institute, California had the highest number of dog bite-related insurance claims in the U.S. in recent years. In 2023 alone, there were over 1,200 dog bite claims, with average payouts exceeding $58,000 per claim. Many of these incidents involve children.
As personal injury attorneys based in California, we’ve seen how traumatic these injuries can be for kids and their families. The good news? Most dog bites are preventable with the right education and supervision.
Here’s how to teach children of all ages how to safely interact with dogs, whether it’s their family pet or one they meet on the street.
At the toddler stage, safety starts with you. Young children are naturally curious, and that curiosity can lead them to tug ears, pull tails, or hug dogs tightly. These gestures, though innocent from a child’s perspective, can be frightening or painful for dogs.
Toddlers should never be left alone with any dog, even a pet that’s considered “gentle.” This age group is still learning about boundaries. When your toddler is near a dog, use clear, simple language like “gentle hands” or “slow steps.” Always model the right behavior–show them how to softly pet a dog on the back or side, and explain why we never touch a dog’s face or tail.
Once kids reach preschool or early elementary school, they begin to understand rules and consequences. This is the perfect time to teach them how to respectfully approach dogs.
Encourage your child to always ask a dog’s owner for permission before petting. It’s not just polite, it’s a safety rule. Teach them to extend a closed fist slowly, letting the dog sniff before reaching out to pet. Explain that hugging dogs or getting close to their face can make a dog feel trapped.
This is also a good age to teach children to give dogs space when they’re eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies. These are moments when even a calm dog might feel protective and react unpredictably.
By ages 8 to 12, kids are more capable of recognizing body language and remembering safety rules. This is the time to have more in-depth conversations about dog behavior.
Make sure your child understands that not all tail wags mean a dog is happy. A tense body, flattened ears, or bared teeth are all signs a dog wants to be left alone. You can teach your child how to respond if approached by an unfamiliar or aggressive dog: stop, stay still like a tree, and avoid direct eye contact. Running or screaming can make the situation worse.
This age group can also begin taking more responsibility for a family pet, feeding, walking (with supervision), and playing respectfully. This builds both empathy and safety awareness.
Teenagers may volunteer at shelters, walk dogs in the neighborhood, or dog-sit for friends or family. They often feel more confident, but it’s important they don’t mistake confidence for control.
Teens should always keep dogs on a leash in public, avoid disciplining dogs that aren’t theirs, and remember that any dog, no matter how small or cute, has the potential to bite. If they’re walking a dog, they should know local leash laws and be cautious around unfamiliar animals.
Teens are also more likely to use social media, where viral videos often show people putting their faces close to dogs for photos or “funny” reactions. Talk to your teen about why these trends are dangerous and encourage them to model safe behavior instead.
Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If a child is bitten, first wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical care, even if the bite looks minor. Infections from dog bites can develop quickly. Report the incident to local animal control, especially if the dog is not familiar or the owner is unknown.
Documentation is essential. Take photos of the injury, keep copies of medical records, and collect witness information if available. If the bite occurred due to negligence, such as an unleashed dog or an owner who failed to control their pet, you may be entitled to compensation.
Our firm has helped many families in Bakersfield and throughout California pursue justice after a dog bite injury. We understand how overwhelming the aftermath can feel, especially when your child is hurt. We’re here to help you understand your options and protect your rights.
Kids and dogs can form amazing bonds, but that relationship must be built on mutual respect and safety. By teaching children how to recognize a dog’s signals, behave calmly, and interact respectfully, you reduce the risk of bites and help your child feel more confident around animals.
If your child has suffered a dog bite injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Colvin Accident Lawyers. We offer compassionate, experienced legal help for families throughout California. A quick consultation could make all the difference in your child’s recovery and your peace of mind.
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