While it’s tempting for children to run up to and pat every dog they see, this is not a good idea. There is no need to develop a fear of dogs, but it is a good idea to follow certain protocols with regard to interacting with them.

Here are some warning signs and suggestions for you and your family regarding dogs.

1) Ask the owner

If a dog is with its owner, always ask that person if it is okay to pat his or her dog. If the answer is no, be respectful and don’t force the issue. If the answer is yes, ask the owner if there is a particular place where the dog likes to be scratched or patted. Squat or kneel down so that you are not looming over the dog, and pat him where the owner suggested or, if the owner did not specify, pat the dog’s chest. This is not intimidating to the dog and does not present your fingers to be bitten or mouthed.

2) Read the body language

Dogs communicate through their facial expression, stance, and other body language. It’s important to know what a dog is trying to tell you.

3) Watch the eyes

A dog takes a straight-on stare as a challenge. Avert your eyes if you think the dog may be aggressive and don’t challenge him back. If he is staring at you and not wagging or “smiling,” it’s especially important that you look to the side and even turn your body to the side. These gestures send a signal to the dog that you are not aggressive nor are you looking for trouble.

4) The tail tells a tale

Wolves communicate a great deal among pack members with their tails, and modern dogs also use their tails for expression. A low tail indicates submission, while a tail held straight out means that a dog is about to attack. An upright, gently waiving tail indicates a friendly demeanor. If a dog’s tail is wagging vigorously, even in circles, it means he is excited and ready to play. If his rear end is up and his front end down while his tail is wagging, he’s not only ready to play he’s ready for a playful wrestle!

5) Don’t run

If a dog is growling or making other signs of aggression, stay put. Turn your body to the side and look down. If you run, the dog will certainly give chase. Even a cat can trick a dog into not chasing it by simply remaining still. Move away slowly, keeping your gaze down and your body bent over a bit and your arms down. This signals to the dog that you do not pose a threat.

It’s important to inform your children without eliciting an irrational fear of dogs. Don’t overplay the dangers and make your children unnecessarily fearful. Just tell them frankly that while most dogs are nice, some dogs can be mean and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Once you learn dog language, it’s easy to understand the do’s and don’ts around our canine friends.