According to the 2005 Contemporary Pediatrics, there are some basic rules that parents can following to decrease the chance of a dog biting a child. These are rules that every child should learn, even if they do not own a dog themselves.

• Never play with a dog unless an adult is present.
• Never go near and unfamiliar dog.
• Never pet a dog without first asking the owner’s permission.
• Never pet a dog without first letting it smell you.
• Don’t pat a dog on top of its head. Pet it under the chin or on its back.
• Stand still if a dog is sniffing you.
• Never scream around a dog.
• Never run past or run up to a dog even one you know.
• Never sneak up on a dog, approach from the side or front.
• Never tease a dog, hit it or pull it’s ears, tail or feet.
• Never play rough games, such as wrestling with a dog.
• Never disturb a dog that is eating or sleeping.
• Never approach a dog that is taking care of puppies. Never touch the puppies.
• Never go near a dog that is growling or showing teeth.
• Don’t turn and run if you feel threatened by a dog. Try to stay calm, back away slowly and avoid eye contact.
• If a dog approaches, stand very still and do not make eye contact.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl up into a ball and put your hands over your head and face.
• If you have been bitten or threatened by a dog, or if you see a dog acting strangely, tell an adult.

Source: Contemporary Pediatrics 2005