Did you know that even cute dogs can bite? Yep. One wrong interaction and someone visiting you or walking by your home is cleaning a wound. You can, however, prevent dog bites by following these tips:
Dogs need personal space just like humans. Watch for signs that the dog is feeling uncomfortable and needs more space. This includes watching the dog’s body and tail as well as its ears and eyes to see if the dog stiffens, seems more alert or tries to make itself larger than it is. A dog may also start backing away if it is uncomfortable.
Dogs need to see the people approaching them. Advise visitors to not sneak up behind your pet. Instead, they should walk up with an open hand for the dog to sniff. Dogs don’t like surprise movements, so people new to the dog should move slowly and gently. When a person moves away from the dog, he or she should not run as the dog will simply chase after!
Don’t let people tease or threaten your dog, even if it’s meant playfully. If a dog is eating, playing with a toy or sleeping, leave the dog be. A simple interruption could be enough to trigger a bite.
Here are some other tips to reduce the risk of dog bites:
If you find yourself threatened by a dog, remain still and don’t look the dog in the eye. Slowly and quietly back away once you know the dog is focusing on something else. If you fall onto the ground, curl up into a ball until the dog loses interest. Don’t be surprised if the dog approaches you further to sniff you. Once the dog moves away, slowly and quietly get up and move away from the area.
