how do i keep my iMac dock from disappearing

everytime i maximize the safari screen the dock disappears and then if i have to select anything in the dock, i have to minimize my screen and the dock reappears. I want my dock up ALL THE TIME and never HIDE. When i select TURN HIDING OFF, the dock disappears completely. I thought if i turn it OFF then it would then stay there permanently? Even if i TURN HIDING ON i get disappearing dock when i maximize my screen...HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!