SPCA launches new dog-safety programme – Dog Safe Happy Homes

This programme is available to parents, families and teachers across New Zealand.

SPCA’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Arnja Dale says “our Dog Safe Happy Homes programme is a curriculum‑aligned, freely available teaching and learning resource for all New Zealand primary and intermediate educators, as well as parents and families."

“What makes this programme so useful is that it provides children with ongoing, structured learning experiences using simple rules to keep safe around dogs.” Dr Dale says that while recognising the signs of how a dog is feeling is essential. These resources are designed to empower children and families with the knowledge and confidence to interact safely and kindly with dogs in a wide range of situations.

“Dogs are wonderful companions who bring joy, comfort, and friendship. Spending time with them can even support children’s wellbeing. Any dog has the potential to cause harm if they feel threatened, overwhelmed, or are in pain. Helping children understand this is key to preventing incidents.”

For many children, dogs are one of the animals they are likely to encounter in everyday life - at home, in the community, or at friends’ houses. Giving children the tools to understand dog behaviour keeps them safe and builds confidence.

The programme includes resources on understanding dog body language, sharing a home with a dog, what to do if an unknown dog approaches, and more. The freely available, Dog Safe Happy Homes resources can be found online. Curriculum-aligned resources for teachers and other educations are also available on our Teacher’s Portal.