• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

3 ways to minimize your risk of dog bites

Posted August 25, 2020

 
Woman introduces toddler to chihuahua. Teach children to minimize dog bite risks and remember the rules as an adult.
Teach children to minimize dog bite risks and remember the rules as an adult.

Dogs are such lovable animals that we sometimes forget that they are powerful creatures with a potentially dangerous bite. It is essential to teach children from a young age to respect these animals, and to remember as adults that a dog may act out if frightened or angered, or if treated poorly by others. If you have been subjected to a bite by a dog, you can click the link for more info from an Austin personal injury lawyer.

While, generally, most dogs have a reasonably good temperament, some things will agitate them or cause them to defend themselves. For the majority of the time, dogs usually remain relatively calm, but some things can be done on your part to minimize dog bite risks. If it does happen, and you don’t require medical attention, remember to keep the wound clean.

Ask before touching

If a dog doesn’t belong to you, you should always ask before stroking them. Not all dogs like to be fussed over, or the dog may be in its senior years and have more of a grumpy disposition. Either way, you must always ask before touching a dog. If not, any incident that occurs may be your fault.

Don’t poke or prod

Chances are that you wouldn’t enjoy it if someone were poking you. Most dogs don’t enjoy it either. Some will sit and tolerate this behavior, particularly by young children, whereas others may snap when they have reached their limit.

This will be especially true if they are poked near the eyes, mouth, in the ears, or bottom. Anything that causes a dog immediate pain or discomfort will invoke an equally urgent response so minimize dog bite risks by not agitating the dog.

Look for warning signs

A dog will usually let you know if they are becoming agitated. If they are showing the whites of their eyes, aren’t wagging their tail as much as usual, or are repeatedly trying to get away, this is a sign that they don’t want to be played with or touched at that moment. Ignoring these signs can lead to some more aggressive warnings, such as growling, baring of teeth, and barking. If by this point, these signs are still ignored, a dog may be more tempted to bite as a final means of exhibiting their displeasure at a situation.

Overall, dogs are innocent creatures, and all they want is love and kindness. Just as you would with another person, it is always important to respect the space and wishes of any dog you see to minimize dog bite risks. Unlike us, they are unable to tell us precisely what it is that they feel or want, so show these thoughts via their actions. If you are unable, or unwilling, to appreciate the signals a dog is giving you, it may be best for you to stay away from the dog entirely.

Watch for aggressive puppy warning signs

 

 
 
 
 
 

Related Posts

  • Man trains aggressive black German shepherd dog. Train a dog not to bite: Watch for behavior changes, redirect puppy bites, and reduce frustration with exercise, and mental stimulation.
    Dog training tips: How to train a dog not to bite

    Train a dog not to bite: Watch for behavior changes,…

  • Angry dog bears his teeth. Dog bite dangers include rabies, tetanus, and MRSA.
    Get checked for these 3 diseases after a dog bite

    By knowing potential dog bite dangers, you can take action…

  • Keep kids safe by teaching them how to avoid dog bites.
    Prevent dog bites with simple rules for kids

    Prevent dog bites by teaching children simple rules such as…

  • Protect your dog from insect bites and stings

    Train your dog to avoid contact with any insect to…

  • Big dogs bark less, are child-friendly, and are easier to train than most small dogs. These dogs make excellent pets for families.
    Small dogs vs big dogs: Who yaps, bites and loves more?

    Every dog owner is sure to have an opinion on…

  • When hiking with your dog be sure to protect your pet from a wild animal bite.
    What to do if a wild animal bites your dog

    Visit your veterinarian if your dog gets a wild animal…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on X (Twitter) Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Training Tagged With: Biting

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

PomeranianSeparation anxietySheddingYorkshire terrierRottweilerThanksgivingPuppy-proofPetfinder.comSocializationTwo dogsOld dogsService dogsPet parentsVacation dog carePet sitterPotty trainingPoodlePuppy kindergartenOutdoor activitiesPandemicWorking dogsSmall dogsValentine's DayWaterPawVeterinarianTickstraining tipsPit bullRescue dog

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • Why is my dog restless and panting at night? 9 warning signs
    Panting at night has many causes, and it's up you to determine why your dog pants excessively and then take action. […]
  • Picture perfect pups: Meet 5 naturally photogenic dog breeds
    Photographers should recognize which dogs are photogenic dog breeds and have a friendly nature. Discover five photogenic dog breeds. […]
  • Sibling rivalry in dogs: Understanding the cause and how to manage it
    Owning multiple dogs can lead to sibling rivalry, with causes including health issues, competition, and changes in routine. […]
  • Unleash the potential of 7 incredibly trainable dog breeds
    Trainable dog breeds: English Springer Spaniel, Rottweiler, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Papillon, Labrador, Sheltie, and Doberman Pinscher. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Our Spring Sale Has Started

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.