Dogs with the sweetest dispositions may bite if provoked. The dog’s size, age, or breed doesn’t matter. Considerations are the dog’s behavior and its history. The number of dog bite cases is higher in children than in adults. However, older people and service providers are often dog-bite victims. Dogs may bite for different reasons.
Usually, bites occur when a dog is in a stressful situation, doesn’t feel well, is scared, or is food or toy protective. A female may bite to defend her litter.
When a dog feels stressed, it may bite to defend itself or its territory. Rough games like tug-of-war or wrestling with your dog could cause it to nip.
Socialization
Some people believe certain breeds like pit bulls are more likely to bite. But many people find bully breeds to have calm personalities and make excellent pets. Socialize your pet and introduce it to new people and situations gradually. Be careful with young children and supervise interactions. You can build a strong bond with your dog by teaching basic commands including come, sit, stay, and no. Training can be introduced during playtime and helps to create a bond between dogs and owners.
Regular veterinary visits are essential. Make sure your dog has all the necessary vaccinations and follow the advice of your veterinarian. A dog that doesn’t feel well is more likely to bite. It’s also a good idea to spay or neuter your dog to prevent illnesses as the dog ages. You should always watch for signs that your dog is showing signs of aggression, feeling stressed, or uncomfortable, and remove your dog before the situation escalates. If your dog is showing signs of aggression or fear without provocation, a veterinary visit is a good idea.
Prevention
When having packages delivered, keep your dog in a secure location away from delivery drivers. You may want to put a sign on your door to alert people of a dog on the property. Dogs that are generally friendly, may attack a delivery driver because the feel startled or trapped or are exhibiting guarding behaviors. Always be cautious around dogs you don’t know and respect your own pets. Be wary of potentially dangerous situations that could escalate and cause an injury. Always teach children not to approach strange dogs or put their hands through a fence to pet a dog they don’t know.
An additional way to prevent dog bites is not to run past a dog. They like to chase anything that moves and can get excited and nip. Dogs that are eating, sleeping, or caring for a litter shouldn’t be approached. When a dog comes up to you to sniff, stay still. The dog will usually wander off when it knows you aren’t threatening. If a dog appears to be a threat, stay calm and avoid eye contact. Stay still until the dog moves away or start backing up slowly, Don’t turn your back on the dog and run. If a dog knocks you to the ground, curl into a ball and protect your neck and face with your hands.
If Your Dog Bites
If your dog bites get medical attention to prevent infection. Trainers indicate that dogs usually bite from fear and not aggression. Instead of punishing your dog stay calm. If you’re bitten by a dog get out of its line of sight. If it’s your dog, restrain it only if it’s safe. If your dog’s behavior is unusual, schedule a vet visit. You may work with a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist to prevent further incidents. You have to learn your dog’s body language, respect its boundaries, and always be in control when your dog is around other people to prevent any incidents.
