Dog attacks: 6 things you need to know

Dogs have always been regarded as man’s best friend. Since time immemorial, they’ve established an unfathomable connection with humans. While there are many good things about living with a canine, some dogs can become bolder and more aggressive towards strangers or other pets; they rush toward them and become violent. Such occurrences are called dog attacks.

Dog attacks, unfortunately, are an everyday occurrence and could happen to anyone. They can be utterly terrifying and traumatic for the dog owner, the pet, and the attacked person. As a result, dog attacks, fights, or bites are issues that all dog owners should understand and prepare to prevent.

Here are six essential things you need to know about dog attacks:

Your state’s dog laws can protect you

Dog laws are intended to keep you, your dog, and others safe. By following the law, you’re a responsible pet owner, especially given the frequency of dog attacks and the danger they pose to the public.

Many states have laws regarding dangerous dogs. These dogs have unjustifiably attacked individuals or other pets, resulting in injuries or death. For example, according to dog laws in NYC, if an owner allows a dog proclaimed as dangerous to cause a severe injury, you could face criminal penalties.

If you’re bitten or attacked by a dog and genuinely think the owner’s behavior was to blame, you must take legal action to protect your rights under your state’s laws. In this case, you might need to hire a lawyer.

Dogs attack for many reasons

Dogs don’t always attack people or other animals; they’re social creatures who’ll try to avoid any situation that could turn violent. They could, however, attack for several reasons.

Dogs bite for many reasons, but the most prevalent is retaliation. If the dog is in a stressful position, it may attack to protect itself or its territory. Dogs can also bite when they’re terrified or startled. They can bite if provoked. They may bite to safeguard anything precious to them, such as their pups, food, or toys.

Dogs often show signs that they’re uncomfortable or anxious

When dogs are aggressive, they start to growl, snarl, bare their teeth, and lunge. So, if another dog acts aggressively toward your dog, you should walk away calmly but swiftly. Don’t get too close.

Instead, use a gate or large vehicle to block the aggressive dog from your pet.

It’s critical to understand your dog’s body language and recognize the warning signs that they’re in distress before they begin to growl. But, when they do, don’t make them feel bad for growling because that only means they’re expressing their discomfort. In this case, try to keep them away from the thing that’s making them feel anxious.

If a dog attacks you, panicking can make the situation worse

It’s easy to say and extremely difficult to do, but the most important thing to remember if you’re attacked is to remain calm. Panicking will only make matters worse.

Use whatever you have on hand to defend yourself when a dog attacks you, such as a handbag, pouch, or suitcase. It can also help if you can go to a high surface. Don’t turn your back on the dog or maintain eye contact, as these actions might exacerbate the assault.

Some dogs don’t want to be approached or disturbed

Not every time is a good time to play with a dog. Sometimes, they want to be left alone, particularly when frustrated. If you want to know if it’s safe to approach a dog, look for a dog with a stiff body. Happy dogs move with ease. On the other hand, an anxious dog moves stiffly or stands still, sometimes with its hackles up.

Also, don’t approach a dog that’s strapped down towards something. When dogs are tied, they may feel more vulnerable and could bite if approached. Similarly, inform the owner and wait for them to arrive to let you in when entering a property. Never enter a house or lawn by yourself as their dog may become frightened by your presence and could start to attack.

Don’t scream if your dog attacks

If your dog attacks someone, your natural reaction would be to scream. However, if your dog hears you yell or sees you frightened, it becomes more likely to continue the attack.

Instead of shouting and panicking, grab your dog’s back legs and lift them swiftly. It’ll likely stop attacking when you raise a dog’s hind end. If there’s a water source nearby, such as a hose, spray your dog, and it’ll stop attacking. 

Verdict about dog attacks

It’s undeniably worrisome when dogs become aggressive. They might’ve felt threatened, or something made them uncomfortable in this instance.

If your dog starts becoming aggressive, it might be best to allow your dog to mingle with people. A well-socialized dog is less likely to feel threatened or intimidated by other pets or people.

Of course, this will take time and patience, but it’ll be worth it.

In the end, being a responsible dog owner who makes an effort to prevent dog aggression benefits all.