(HealthDayNews) — Whether a dog is prone to biting or not, any dog may lash out if it feels threatened. And since many young kids love to pull dogs’ tails or poke their fingers into dogs’ eyes, never leave your young child or infant alone with your canine.

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests you teach your child to:

• Never bother a dog that’s eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
• Never tease a dog.
• Never pet a dog without first letting it smell you.
• Tell an adult about any stray dogs.
• Never go near strange dogs.