Owning a pet can be a wonderful and exciting adventure for the whole family. Getting a dog can help keep children active while teaching them valuable lessons about responsibility and compassion. However, children must first learn how to be safe around dogs. This means showing the dog respect to earn his trust.

Whether it is a dog you already know, one you’ve never met or even your own pet, there are certain ways that your child should approach a dog to ensure a safe, pleasant interaction for both the child and the dog. The American Kennel Club offers the following safety tips that kids should take when greeting a dog:

- Ask permission. It’s important to ask a dog’s owner first if you can pet the dog. Walk slowly when approaching the owner in order not to startle the dog. If the owner says no, politely accept the answer and walk away. Not every dog reacts the same way to strangers petting them, and the owner will know if it is safe for you to approach.

- Approach the dog calmly. If the owner says yes, make a fist, and then extend your hand slowly to the dog to let him sniff the back of your hand. Dogs recognize people by scent, so letting him sniff your hand helps him become familiar with you.

- Know where to pet. Once the dog has sniffed your hand, pet him gently under the chin or on the chest. Petting him on top of his head may intimidate him and can cause him to react in defense.

- Keep your chin up. Never put your face down in front of a dog. This can be threatening to the dog and cause him to react negatively.

- Don’t hug dogs. Kids should never hug a dog.