What is a rule of public contact regarding canines?

When considering public safety and interaction with canines, the rule regarding never leaving any canine unattended around small children is particularly important. This guideline helps to prevent potential accidents or injuries, as children may not understand how to appropriately interact with dogs. Even the most well-trained and gentle dogs can react unpredictably to sudden movements or loud noises that children might make. Maintaining supervision ensures that adults can step in if needed to prevent an interaction from escalating or if the dog appears stressed or uncomfortable.

While other rules about canine interaction—such as asking permission before petting, ensuring dogs are on leashes, and requiring obedience training—are also significant, the focus on supervision with young children addresses a crucial safety aspect that can mitigate the risks associated with dog behavior in public settings.