The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identify children as among those at highest risk of being bitten by a dog. Teachers can help students understand that not all dogs are friendly and that even friendly dogs or a toddler's own family pet may become aggressive if provoked. Tell toddlers not to play with a dog unless an adult is present and that if a dog becomes hostile, they should stay still instead of running or screaming, which will provoke the dog further.
Teachers can demonstrate how to meet and play with a new dog using a stuffed animal. They should show toddlers to approach the dog slowly and pet it gently. Toddlers must never hit a dog, pull its tail or otherwise bother it. Sometimes toddlers want to show their affection for a pet by hugging it, but some dogs don't like close contact. If the dog is not a family pet, children should stick to gentle petting.
Dogs require lots of grooming and attention, and toddlers can begin to participate in a family dog's care. Teach students that dogs, just like toddlers, require fresh food and water daily. They need to be groomed by having their fur brushed and occasionally shampooed. Toddlers whose families have dogs may be familiar with daily walks and can educate their non-dog-owning peers about their pets' need for physical activity. Teachers can also role-play a trip to the veterinarian's office.
Many families get puppies when children are young. Introducing a puppy to the house is a big event for a toddler and she will need to prepare for it. Explain to her that puppies may be scared because they aren't familiar with their surroundings. She can help her puppy acclimate by playing quietly, petting it gently and giving it a warm, soft place to sleep and hang out until it is ready to explore the house. She also must be told to keep toys, dolls and books off the floor and away from the puppy to avoid having them chewed.