Many people choose the Great dane as a family pet, because of his reputation as the gentle giant, and a generally accepted idea that he is good with children. Whilst all this is true, it is worth remembering that he is still a dog, cabable of instinctive dog behaviour, and it is up to the parent to educate both children and dog so that they both live together with respect and harmony. In this day and age, dog attacks draw a media frenzy and inevitable it is the dog that is blamed . How often though, was the dog provoked by rough or aggressive actions from children, or mistaken body language. A dog does not see a child as an adult, and at best would only see one as an equal, but more likely as a pack member with a lower status. If the dog was there before the child, then this is even more likely. Children especially toddlers who can not yet speak, sometimes stare , perhaps in awe at dogs and this in its self is a threat to a dog. A fixed stare is interperated as a challenge. Patting a dog on the head is a no no...some dogs may feel threatened if patted on the head from above or leaned over, as these too are actions that may seem to the dog as dominating behaviour by another. Dog psychcology in the lay world is very poorly understood. Most dog problems stem from a lack of understanding in this area. When it comes to dogs and children, common sense must prevail at all times. Never leave a child alone with a dog, it only takes seconds for something to happen, as is always the case with children.Teach your child how to pet and handle the dog, not to be rough, or tease as even though the family pet may be a tolerant well mannered individual, he should not be expected to put up with bad treatment or pain, that could untimately test his composure. Though the owner should be able to remove food from a dog, a child should never do this. If the dog is unwell, children should not attempt to handle him. Make sure children never approach a strange dog with out permission from the owner