12/11/2021
Following the tragic news of a 10 year old boy being fatally injured by a ‘pitbull type’ dog, let’s take a look at how we can keep children safe around dogs.
Firstly, a pitbull type is not inherently a dangerous dog. However, they are large and muscular and consequently pose a risk of far greater injury if they bite than say, a poodle - as with any large, powerful breed of dog. Whilst fatal dog injuries are extremely rare, there have been cases in the last few years by a Jack Russell terrier, Lakeland terrier, chow chow, Doberman, Malamute, and German shepherds as well as various different bull breeds. The pitbull is one of 4 illegal breeds under Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) that was implemented under the Dangerous Dogs Act 30 years ago - in that time fatalities have doubled, dog bite injuries have increased disproportionately compared with the number of dogs in the UK population (and bites are caused by all breeds and crossbreeds), and status dogs still exist. So we know that BSL isn’t working. There are far too many confounding variables at play than simply putting these incidents down to breed - and where would we draw the line?
Secondly, whilst dogs can be ‘man’s best friend’ we should always remember that they are a predator with very sharp teeth! There is no breed that is good with children. I recommend that ALL dogs are perceived as the equivalent of a loaded gun in terms of child safety, regardless of breed or temperament. If you wouldn’t leave your child unsupervised with a loaded gun, don’t do it with a dog. If you’d not let your child grab a loaded gun, don’t let them do it to a dog. If you’d check if someone else’s gun was loaded before letting your child touch it, ask before letting your child touch someone else’s dog. You get the gist. Make sure appropriate management strategies are in place to prevent any risk of the child getting access to the equivalent of the loaded gun.
Thirdly, learn to understand dog body language & communication (check out my webinar on this if you want to learn more! Just £20: https://www.pet-sense.co.uk/product/canine-body-language-and-communication/) - there are numerous signs dogs will use to communicate before they escalate to biting which should be recognised by all dog owners.
Fourthly, if you need to rehome your dog, or want to rehome a dog, please do so through a reputable rescue.
