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Dog Bite Safety
Any dog can bite, regardless of their size, gender, and age. Even the cuddliest, sweetest pet can bite if provoked. Remember, it is not a dog’s breed that determines whether it will bite, but rather the dog’s individual history and behavior. If a dog is not feeling well, is stressed, scared, or is protecting food, toys, or its puppies, it can bite.
Dog bites pose a serious health risk.
The Facts
Every year, over 4.5 million people in the US are bitten by dogs and over 800,000 receive medical attention for dog bites.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention.
Children are the most common victims of dog bites and are far more likely to be severely injured.
Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.
Most Dog Bites are Preventable.
There are many things you can do to prevent them. Get tips below.
Safety Tips
Educate children how to have a good interaction with a dog.
Teach them to respect animals and understand that dogs sometimes need alone time.
Don’t allow teasing, pulling ears or tails, or climbing on or attempting to ride a dog.
Teach children not to run up to a dog, even if it is with its owner. Teach them to approach slowly and ask before petting.
Keep dogs away from infants and young children unless there is direct and constant supervision.
Leave dogs alone when they are eating or sleeping.
In your home, break your house into zones if you have young children. Keep the dog and children separated if you are out of sight or busy. Baby gates provide a simple means of zoning.
Be Alert!
Overall, be alert for any signs of aggression from a dog toward a child.
Look for any situations that could have the potential to escalate (such as a child taking a dog’s toy or food, for example).
If your dog seems to be exhibiting fear or aggression that is inappropriate or difficult to understand, seek help from a veterinary behaviorist to resolve the problem. It may be that the dog perceives the situation very differently from you, and a few simple changes will put him or her at ease again.