Offering unconditional love, companionship and endless hours of play, dogs are a child's best friend. But, they can also pose a safety threat to children -- especially those under the age of 10 and who don't know how to act around unfamiliar dogs.

Each year, more kids are bitten by dogs than are injured from horseback riding, roller blading and skateboarding combined. In fact, the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that children make up more than 60% of all dog bite victims.

But with responsible pet ownership and by teaching children proper safety rules, bites are preventable.

Training Dogs to be Good Citizens
Training a dog to be a good citizen is a basic responsibility of every owner, says Joyce Clemens, dog trainer at Best Friends East Cobb, GA resort. "Make sure your puppy feels at ease around children by exposing him a little at a time under controlled circumstances. Start at a distance, watching children at the playground, for example. Over time, move closer. As your dog becomes more comfortable encourage one or two children to come over to say "hello". Don't put your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased, and be alert for signs that your dog is uncomfortable."

Basic obedience and early socialization are very important, professional trainers agree. Every owners should train his or her dog to obey the basic commands of 'sit,' 'stay,' 'no' and 'come.' Most importantly, follow leash laws.

Kids Need Training Too
Just as important as it is for pet owners to take responsibility for their dogs, it is equally important for parents to take responsibility for their children by teaching them from an early age how to behave around animals.

"Kids who have family dogs need to understand that all dogs are not like their dogs. The Golden Retriever down the street may not have the same easy going temperament as your Golden at home," says Toni Nappa, trainer at Best Friends Norwalk, CT Pet Resort. "It's also valuable for kids to learn how to interpret a dog's behaviors, such as the difference between a play bow or an aggressive stance, so that they can distinguish when a dog is a possible threat."

Nappa recommends teaching children the following dog-safe behaviors: Never pet a dog you don't know without asking the owner. If the owner says yes, close your hand into a fist and let the dog sniff the back of your hand. Next, pet the dog gently, under the chin, or on his chest.

Don't run to, or past, a dog. Dogs love to chase and catch things, and may become excited and lunge. If you don't know the dog, walk slowly and quietly away with your hands in your pockets or at your side.

If a strange dog approaches to sniff you, stay still. Try to relax. In most cases, the dog will go away once it determines you are not a threat. Never corner a dog. Never stare into the eyes of a dog you don't know. Dogs think sustained eye contact is a sign of assertive or aggressive behavior.

Don't disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies. Never approach a dog from the rear and grab him or place your arms around his neck. He may perceive this as an act of dominance, or you may startle him into a defensive response. If a dog knocks you to the ground, roll into a ball and remain still. Don't scream. Cover your head and ears with your arms and legs.

Don't forget that your dog is a social animal," Nappa adds. "Be sure to spend ample time with your pet. Dogs frequently left alone have a greater chance of developing behavioral problems. By using these techniques, Fido will become friend, not foe to children and adults alike.

For more information about keeping children and dogs safe together, consult the professional dog trainer at the Best Friends center near you. Visit Our Centers online.