Dog Bite Prevention

Dog Bite Prevention Weeks occurs during the second week of April and intends to raise awareness on dog bite triggers, signs to watch for, and how to have positive and safe interactions with dogs. Understanding dog behavior and body language is a valuable skill that can protect you and your family from unsafe pet interactions.

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The first (and most important) thing to understand about dog interactions is that any pet can and may bite under certain circumstances. Many owners assume that their pet would never bite based on the pet’s overall disposition, breed, upbringing, training background, or positive track record, but every year, thousands of people are treated for dog bite-related injuries - often involving dogs living in their household.

Biting is not a behavior exclusively tied to certain temperaments, breeds, training background, or personal history. A common misconception is that dogs who bite without an apparent reason must have been abused or were brought up by poor ownership and/or lack of training. While these are certainly risk factors to be considered when interacting with a dog and may increase the bite risk associated with that dog, many owners make the mistake of assuming their dog would never bite. The fact is any dog can and will bite under the right circumstances.

Does a dog’s breed matter?

While there is research that supports that there are some dog breeds who may be inclined to behave more aggressively than others, there are a multitude of other factors that contribute to determining a pet’s disposition. The safest course of action to take when interacting with dogs is to proceed slowly and calmly, understand dog body language, and be mindful and respectful of the dog’s boundaries, regardless of the breed.

Why might a dog bite?

The most common circumstance in which dogs bite (even the most mild-tempered pets) is pain. Pets who are in pain may feel more defensive of themselves, prompting aggression towards humans or other pets. If a pet is in pain, they may bite if you touch or get too close to the area causing them to hurt. If your pet injures themselves, you should always move slowly and proceed with caution, using a muzzle or some other type of barrier between you and your pet’s head when trying to apply first aid or transporting them to the vet.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that not all pain is visible. Pets who are experiencing more chronic discomfort such as joint pain caused by arthritic changes or back/neck pain caused by things like jumping down from the couch can cause pets to become aggressive or bite if touched in these areas. If your pet has never had problems with aggression but is suddenly starting to lash out more, especially when touched, please consult your veterinarian as they may be experiencing pain.

Another circumstance that may cause a dog to bite is fear. Animals cannot understand or communicate emotions in the same way that we do. When a pet is feeling frightened or cornered, their natural instinct is to defend themselves. While some pets may offer some warning signs through their body language (a show of teeth, vocalization such as growling or snarling, hunched or rigid body posture, half moon eyes, etc.), not all pets will give sufficient warning if they are feeling threatened.

It is important to understand your dog’s fears and triggers. What makes them uncomfortable? Every pet is different, but common triggers may include: other pets or people getting too close, playing too rough, being picked up or physically touched or restrained, other pets or people getting too close to their territory/resources (food, water, toys, bedding, etc.), or feeling overwhelmed while being in loud/crowded places with a lot of other people or pets. As an owner, you can help prevent dog bites by understanding your pet’s possible triggers, educating those who are spending time with your pet, and removing your pet from situations that may cause them to bite.

What are the best ways to prevent fear-related dog bites?

Socialization and slow and controlled exposure to uncomfortable situations can help reduce your pet’s triggers over time. Depending on the severity of your pet’s fear or anxiety during these situations, you may need to consult your veterinarian or a professional trainer or behavior specialist for the best results. We recommend starting small and starting slow and letting your pet’s comfort level determine when to progress to the next level of socialization. For better recommendations more specific to your pet’s unique needs and history, please consult your veterinarian.

How do you know when a dog is going to bite?

While not all dogs will give some sort of warning, many dogs who “bite without warning” were probably giving off some subtle signs before they finally bit. It is important to familiarize not only yourself, but your whole family (kids included!) on the warning signs to watch for that tell you your pet needs a little space. Not all dogs who are about to bite will make a big show of it with showing their teeth or growling - here are some signs to watch for if your pet is starting to feel defensive:

• Avoidant behavior such as avoiding eye contact, physically turning their head or body away

• Yawning or licking their lips

• Fur standing up

• “Half-moon eyes” also referred to as a “side eye” in which the whites of the eyes are showing, like your pet is glaring

• A straight, wagging tail* moving quickly back and forth

• Rigid body posture, may be posturing with chest out or in a more defensive, crouched position with the head lowered

• Cowering, rolling over onto their back in a submissive position but with other aforementioned signs present

• Lips pulled back exposing teeth, may or may not be accompanied by whining, growling, barking, or other vocalizations.

*Not to be confused with a happy wagging tail in which the whole body is loose, wiggly, and relaxed.

If you are around a dog who is exhibiting any of these signs, back off immediately and advise others to do the same. It doesn't matter who the dog is, what your relationship is to the dog, or where you happen to be - if a dog bite can be prevented by taking action and speaking up, please do so!

For further questions or concerns please contact us at 972-347-6100.

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