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If you own a dog, it’s smart to understand the potential risks of a dog bite. Nearly 1 in 5 people bitten by a dog requires medical attention. Although it's rash to suggest that we shouldn't keep dogs and other pets due to this danger, this problem cannot be ignored.
If your dog bites someone, you may be financially liable for the injuries caused.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent your dog(s) from biting people or another canine.
The American Veterinary Medical Association, a nonprofit organization that represents veterinarians, points out that children and senior citizens are the most common victims of dog bites. Do not put your dog ‒ nor the children and senior citizens in your family ‒ in harm's way by leaving them together unattended.
If you own a dog, the steps above can help reduce the risk of your dog biting someone. But you will also want to ensure you have sufficient liability coverage in case an attack occurs. Get in touch with your independent agent to protect your family and assets in the event of a dog bite. Don't have an agent? Click here to find one in your area.
If your dog bites someone, you may be financially liable for the injuries caused.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent your dog(s) from biting people or another canine.
- Socialize the dog with people and other animals from when it is young.
- Train the dog for obedience, as this will increase your control over the animal.
- If there is any moment when the dog shows an aggressive side, bring it to a certified applied animal behaviorist, a veterinary behaviorist or a qualified certified professional dog trainer. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) ‒ a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting animals and educating pet owners ‒ suggests owners be on the lookout for moments when dogs try to make themselves "look bigger," bark, growl, stiffen up or show teeth.
- Know the dog's personality and behavior, especially when faced with triggers such as strangers or aggressive animals.
- Never leave dogs alone with children under the age of 10. Children are more at risk for being bitten. The ASPCA recommends not allowing children near dogs when the animals sleep, eat, play with toys or are in close proximity to their puppies.
The American Veterinary Medical Association, a nonprofit organization that represents veterinarians, points out that children and senior citizens are the most common victims of dog bites. Do not put your dog ‒ nor the children and senior citizens in your family ‒ in harm's way by leaving them together unattended.
If you own a dog, the steps above can help reduce the risk of your dog biting someone. But you will also want to ensure you have sufficient liability coverage in case an attack occurs. Get in touch with your independent agent to protect your family and assets in the event of a dog bite. Don't have an agent? Click here to find one in your area.
Prevent Getting Bit
If you do not own a dog, make sure you understand the warning signs of body language and aggression to protect yourself and your family. The Humane Society, a nonprofit group dedicated to the protection of animals, states that intense stares, furrowed brows and stiff tails are all warning signs that a dog might attack.
The CDC offers these tips to avoid dog bites:
The CDC offers these tips to avoid dog bites:
- Don't approach a dog you do not know. Allow the dog to sniff you first and don't panic or make loud noises.
- Do not make eye contact with a dog you do not want to interact with. Stand with the side of your body facing the dog and do not face them directly.
- If a dog knocks you down, curl into a ball, tuck your head in and put your hands over your ears and neck.
- If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, remain motionless and stay calm.
