08/08/2021
What can you do to prevent your dog from biting?
Provide obedience training
Socialize with other people and animals
Provide proper food, water, shelter
Provide exercise - a tired dog is a happy dog
Provide enrichment - give your dog toys and puzzle feeders
Play with your dog, but train the dog to release on command
Provide attention and affection; dogs are social animals
Avoid or minimize chaining or tethering - dogs often develop aggressive behaviors when isolated outside for long periods of time
Obey leash laws
Spay or neuter your dog
Never leave children alone with a dog
Why do dogs bite?
Excitement/play
Possessive/protective
Fear
Accidental
Attention
Sick or injured
What do you do when you see a loose dog?
Avoid the dog
Do not attempt to catch it
If dog can be secured safely in yard, do so
Do not tease or taunt
Inform an adult
If owner is present, request that owner secure the dog
If dog remains unsecured, call 911
What about leashed dogs?
Do not approach unfamiliar dogs
Do not assume dog is playful or friendly
Do not extend open hand
Allow wide berth when walking, bicycling, roller-blading by dog
Owner may say “she doesn’t bite,” but all dogs can bite
Service visits/visiting an unfamiliar house or dwelling
Announce arrival or call ahead if possible
Look for signs of a dog (e.g., bowl, toys, etc)
Jiggle fence, shake keys, whistle
If a dog is present, ensure it is secured before entering home
Inquire about dog before entering home
Do’s and Don’ts when approached by unfamiliar dogs
Stand still; Don’t run away; Walk slowly away from dog
Avert your gaze; Don’t look directly in eyes
Use firm, confident commands
Offer bag, purse, hat, or other objects to dog instead of body
If there is no object to use, offer weak arm instead of dominant arm—do not pull away!
If knocked over, assume fetal position on knees, cover your face and neck
Do not play with dog unless supervised by adult
Do not disturb a dog who is sleeping, eating, or with pups
If bitten, tell adult, wash with soap and water, seek medical attention (call 911 for emergencies, 311 for non-emergencies)
Female dog with puppies
Do not attempt to pet mother dog with puppies
Do not attempt to grab or pet puppies
Interpreting dog postures
Dogs use a variety of body postures to communicate
Understanding and recognizing those postures can help in avoiding encounters resulting in bites
