If you have a child, help them develop a positive relationship with dogs by teaching them how to greet properly. Always ask the owner if you can pet their dog. Some dogs are frightened of children and may growl or snip if a child lunges at them. If the owner says yes, curl your hand into a fist with the back of your hand facing upward. Slowly extend your hand toward the dog and let him sniff your hand. Never try to pet a strange dog on the top of their head and don't force a child that is scared of dogs to greet a dog.