Employees who interact with dogs in the course of their daily work face real risks, and the consequences of a dog bite can be costly for both workers and employers. Investing in proper training reduces incidents, increases awareness, and equips employees with the skills to assess risks and respond appropriately.

This online Dog Bite Safety course helps workers understand canine behaviour, maintain safe interactions, and make informed decisions in a variety of real-world situations. The training includes ten short modules, each 5–6 minutes long, along with interactive scenarios and a question bank to reinforce learning and build confidence.

This course provides practical guidance to help workers recognize warning signs, approach properties safely, interact appropriately with customers and their dogs, and respond effectively in the event of an encounter.

Canine/Human Postures

• Recognize common canine body language and human behaviours that influence dog reactions
• Identify signs of stress, fear, or aggression

Employee Interaction with Customers and Their Dogs

• Learn communication techniques to maintain safety during customer interactions
• Understand how environment and tone influence canine behaviour

I-Messages

• Use clear, confident communication to diffuse tension and maintain control
• Apply messaging strategies to reduce escalation

Site Evaluation

• Assess surroundings before entering a property
• Spot potential hazards and determine the safest approach

Entering the Yard

• Learn safe entry strategies to reduce the risk of a surprise encounter
• Understand how to prevent dogs from feeling threatened

Approaching the Front Door

• Identify best practices when walking to and knocking at a residence
• Maintain awareness to avoid sudden interactions

While in the House

• Use safe positioning and communication while indoors
• Understand how household dynamics affect canine behaviour

Making a Safe Exit

• Apply techniques to exit a property safely and confidently
• Avoid common mistakes that can trigger defensive reactions

Defense Against a Single Dog Attack

• Learn defensive strategies to reduce injury during a confrontation

Defense Against a Pack Attack

• Understand escalation risks and how to react when faced with multiple aggressive dogs

This online Dog Bite Safety course takes approximately 60 minutes to complete. Learners may pause and resume the training at any time.

A score of 80% is required to pass this course. Learners may attempt the course up to two additional times if needed.

A downloadable and printable certificate of completion is available once the course has been successfully finished.