• Always ask the owner, “May I pet your dog?” first.
• Approach from the front using slow movements, with a calm voice.
• Offer palm or back of hand for dog to sniff before stroking.
• It is often better to scratch the dog’s chest rather than pat the top of its head.
• Better not to pet strange or unaccompanied dogs, but if you do, always let the dog come to you instead of you going to the dog.

Some dogs are very territorial and challenge anybody who passes by their terrain. Stand perfectly still facing dog, hands at sides or in pockets. Avoid staring into his eyes. Do not bend over. If someone has been throwing rocks at such a dog, reaching down even to attach a leash to your own dog can be misinterpreted and provoke an attack. As the dog returns to his own yard or territory, slowly back away—do not throw up your arms, yell or run from him at any time.

• Don’t tease or throw rocks at any dog.
• Speak first to a sleeping dog before touching him.
• Keep your distance from a dog who is eating.
• To avoid getting bitten or licked to death, keep your face away from any dog.
• Never reach in through a window to pet a dog in a car or through a fence to pet a dog in a yard or cage.
• Avoid grabbing any dog—you could get bitten doing this.

• Play gently with your dog or puppy
• Discourage jumping up
• If you are using a chain collar for training, be sure to take it off when you aren’t training him. Chain collars can be lethal if left on an unattended dog or when dogs are playing together.
• Play with your dog often and see that he gets plenty of exercise.
• Walk your dog on a leash and make friends for dogs by cleaning up after him. Carry a pooper-scooper or plastic bag with you for this purpose.
• Never permit your dog to roam loose unattended.
• Never hit your dog to correct him.
• Teach your dog good manners, then your parents, friends and neighbors will love your dog too.