About this course
Course Objective:
To help UK-based delivery drivers understand dog behaviour, prevent dog-related incidents, and know how to respond safely in the event of an encounter.
For:
Parcel couriers, posties, food delivery riders (e.g. Evri, DPD, Royal Mail, Amazon, Deliveroo, Just Eat, Uber Eats, etc.)
✅ Module 1: Understanding Dog Behaviour in the UK Context
Lesson 1.1: Spotting Dog Body Language
Friendly signs: wagging tail (broad and low), relaxed ears and eyes
Warning signs: staring, growling, stiff posture, raised hackles
Fearful signs: tail tucked, cowering, avoiding eye contact
Lesson 1.2: Why Dogs React to You
Territorial instinct ("stranger at the gate")
Repeated visits can increase territorial reaction
Sounds (door slams, engine noise) can startle or excite dogs
🚫 Module 2: Preventing Incidents Before They Happen
Lesson 2.1: Pre-Delivery Safety
Check for any delivery instructions in your app (some customers note if a dog is present)
Keep an eye out for "Beware of the Dog" signs – often small and subtle
Listen for barking as you approach
Lesson 2.2: Navigating Driveways and Gardens
Never enter a gated garden without checking for dogs
Leave parcels in designated “safe place” if a dog is roaming free
Avoid leaning over fences or gates – even small dogs can bite
🧰 Module 3: Safe Delivery Practices and Equipment
Lesson 3.1: What to Carry (UK Legal Context)
Dog deterrent spray: most sprays are illegal in the UK under firearm laws (e.g. CS gas, pepper spray)
Safe alternatives:
Umbrella or bag as a barrier
Personal alarm to startle the dog
High-vis gear helps signal presence early
Lesson 3.2: Delivery Best Practices
Knock or ring before entering a gated area
Avoid turning your back on dogs
Keep packages between you and the dog if one is nearby
Use designated safe places (shed, parcel box, neighbour) if there's a threat
🆘 Module 4: Handling Aggressive Dogs
Lesson 4.1: If a Dog Approaches or Charges
Stay still – don’t run
Speak in a firm, low voice: "NO" or "GO HOME"
Use your bag or clipboard as a barrier
Back away slowly
Lesson 4.2: If a Dog Attacks
Use your non-dominant arm to protect your body
Try to stay on your feet
Shout for help – neighbours often respond
Seek medical attention even for small bites – infection risk
Report to your employer and (if needed) local council dog warden
📝 Module 5: Reporting and Legal Framework in the UK
Lesson 5.1: UK Laws You Should Know
Dangerous Dogs Act 1991:
It’s an offence for a dog to be dangerously out of control in public or private spaces
The owner can face prosecution, fines, or the dog may be seized
Dogs don't have to bite to be considered dangerous – aggressive behaviour counts
Lesson 5.2: Reporting Procedures
Royal Mail, DPD, Amazon all have internal incident reporting systems
Inform your supervisor immediately after an incident
File a report with the local authority or council dog warden if the dog is a known risk
In serious cases, call 101 (non-emergency police) or 999 in emergencies
🎓 Final Quiz & Completion
Scenario-based questions (e.g., "What would you do if a dog blocks the gate?")
Basic multiple choice quiz (passing score: 80%)
Issue a certificate of completion (optional)
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This course is designed to help UK-based delivery drivers recognise, avoid, and respond to dog-related risks while performing deliveries. It focuses on understanding dog behaviour, using safe approaches, following legal guidance, and knowing what to do in an emergency.
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