New Legislation on Banned Breeds and Children: Why Education Matters More Than Breed
- Bark Smart Team
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
Recent changes to legislation surrounding banned dog breeds have reignited discussions about dog safety, responsible ownership, and the relationship between children and dogs.
One area that has received particular attention is guidance around children being left unattended with certain types of dogs. While these discussions often focus on specific breeds, at Bark Smart we believe it is important to look at the bigger picture.
Our message is simple:
Children should never be left unsupervised with any dog, regardless of breed.
The Reality Behind Dog Incidents
Research consistently shows that the majority of dog-related incidents involving children do not occur with unfamiliar dogs. In fact, around 80% of incidents involving children happen with a dog that is known to them, whether that is a family pet, a relative’s dog, or a friend’s dog.
This highlights an important fact:
The risk is not limited to one breed or type of dog.
Even the friendliest, most well-trained dog can become frightened, startled, unwell, uncomfortable, or overwhelmed in certain situations. Dogs communicate through body language, and when those signals are missed or misunderstood, problems can occur.
Why Supervision Matters
Many incidents happen during everyday interactions when adults assume everything is fine.
Examples include:
Hugging or climbing on a dog.
Disturbing a dog while it is sleeping.
Approaching a dog while it is eating.
Taking toys or treats away.
Cornering a dog without giving it space.
Children are naturally curious and often do not recognise when a dog is feeling uncomfortable. It is therefore the responsibility of adults to supervise interactions and help children understand how to behave safely and respectfully around dogs.
Education is the Key to Prevention
At Bark Smart, we believe that education is one of the most effective ways to reduce dog-related incidents.
Through our workshops, children learn:
How to approach a dog safely.
How to recognise when a dog wants space.
How to read basic canine body language.
What to do if an unfamiliar dog approaches them.
How to interact with dogs in a kind and respectful manner.
Just as importantly, parents and carers also play a vital role in creating safe environments where children and dogs can thrive together.
Safe and Kind Interactions Benefit Everyone
Dog safety should never be about fear.
It should be about understanding.
When children learn how dogs communicate, and adults provide appropriate supervision, we create safer outcomes for everyone involved:
Safer children.
Happier dogs.
More confident families.
Stronger communities.
Bark Smart’s Position
While legislation may focus on particular breeds, Bark Smart’s advice remains the same:
Never leave a child unattended with a dog.
Breed alone does not determine behaviour. Responsible ownership, supervision, education, and understanding are what truly make the difference.
By teaching children and adults how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs, we can help prevent incidents before they happen and build a future where children and dogs can enjoy positive relationships together.
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