Dog bites are quite serious, and happen more often than you might believe. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, over one-third of all homeowners insurance claims are dog-bite related. In 2014 - the latest year that data is available - California saw the highest number of claims at nearly 1,900, with Ohio in second at just over 1,000.
And that's not counting the incidents that go unreported to insurers. An estimated 800,000 people in the United States alone are treated medically for dog bite injuries, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Dog bite susceptibility not based on breed
When dog bites make the headlines, it can seem like some breeds are more prone to biting than others. However, animal experts like Brandon Fouche, a dog behaviorist, says aggressiveness is usually something dogs are taught, often times unwittingly by the owner or owners.
"Most of the problems we have with our dogs are learned," Fouche told ABC News. "It's a learned behavior when a dog shows aggression."
Animal experts and veterinarians say that the best way to prevent dog bites from happening is through the proper training methods, ideally with a professional. Here are a few other tips to keep in mind before adding a four-legged friend to the family:
National Dog Bite Prevention Week is held every year in May. You can prepare for it by updating your homeowners insurance policy in the event the unexpected happens with your pet. To learn what you can do, speak with your local Selective agent.
And that's not counting the incidents that go unreported to insurers. An estimated 800,000 people in the United States alone are treated medically for dog bite injuries, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Dog bite susceptibility not based on breed
When dog bites make the headlines, it can seem like some breeds are more prone to biting than others. However, animal experts like Brandon Fouche, a dog behaviorist, says aggressiveness is usually something dogs are taught, often times unwittingly by the owner or owners.
"Most of the problems we have with our dogs are learned," Fouche told ABC News. "It's a learned behavior when a dog shows aggression."
Animal experts and veterinarians say that the best way to prevent dog bites from happening is through the proper training methods, ideally with a professional. Here are a few other tips to keep in mind before adding a four-legged friend to the family:
- Socializing your dog is extremely important. When they're at a young age, this involves getting them out and around people in a slow, steady manner so that they're not overwhelmed.
- Dogs are just like people, in that they need to have their space from time to time. Children should be sure to avoid disturbing pets when they're eating or resting.
- Speak to a professional when you're trying to decide on what kind of breed. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain behaviors. For instance Jack Russell Terriers tend to be more hyperactive, while bulldogs are usually calmer creatures.
National Dog Bite Prevention Week is held every year in May. You can prepare for it by updating your homeowners insurance policy in the event the unexpected happens with your pet. To learn what you can do, speak with your local Selective agent.
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