Raising Awareness of Safe Child–Dog Interaction Through Canine Body Language Education
On 11 December 2025, an educational presentation entitled “Learn Dog Language & Become a Super Dog Detective” was delivered by Dr. Hilal Kurum from the Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Hasvet School of Veterinary Medicine, Khazar University, hosted by Dunya IB School.
The presentation focused on the scientific interpretation of canine body language, including stress signals, warning behaviors, and calming cues. Emphasis was placed on evidence-based findings demonstrating that accurate recognition of these behavioral signals plays a critical role in dog-bite prevention, particularly in child–dog interactions. Research indicates that introducing this knowledge at an early age significantly enhances children’s ability to interact with dogs in a safer, more confident, and more informed manner.
In alignment with December’s international recognition as Learn a Foreign Language Month, the event adopted a symbolic and educational approach by teaching children the “language of dogs.” Through this framework, participants were encouraged to develop observational awareness and behavioral insight, effectively becoming “Super Dog Detectives” equipped with preventive knowledge aimed at reducing the risk of dog-related injuries.
The event contributed meaningfully to the promotion of animal welfare awareness and preventive public health strategies, highlighting the importance of early education in fostering safe and respectful human–animal relationships based on scientific understanding.
