Dog Bite Avoidance – Training Yourself and Your Family Against Bites
Sunday, March 30th, 2008Millions of people every year are bitten by dogs. Some are reported and others are not. With proper training, many dogs can learn to curb that temptation to exercise their choppers. And while some bites are not done in a malicious manner, they can still be hurtful and cause damage. Therefore, instead of focusing on what you can do with your dog to keep him from biting, this article will instead focus on things you and your family can do to remove that temptation from your dog. Through training and some dog bite avoidance tips, you should hopefully avoid becoming a dog bite statistic.
Reasons Why Your Dog May Bite
· Some dogs express themselves through biting if they are feeling threatened, scared or mad. Avoid situations like these with your dog.
· If your dog feels trapped, biting may occur. Give your dog some personal space and avoid public crowds until he is properly trained for that.
· Dogs are protective of their things whether it is food, toys, their home and even you. Don’t try and take their things away, especially if they are in the midst of using them or eating.
· A stressed or surprised dog may bite too. Therefore, do not sneak up on him. Make some noise so he knows you are there.
Dog Bite Prevention
· Children are most vulnerable to dig bite attacks. Teach your kids to be careful around pets, even your own. Follow the dog’s lead and don’t allow your kids to touch or approach a dog unless you say it is ok.
· Children love playing with puppies and that is great. However, puppies teethe a lot so they tend to nip when they play. These typically don’t hurt, but discourage your children from allowing these bites to take place. A puppy who bites now and is not stopped will continue to do it.
· Never approach a strange or stray dog. You do not know their history or health status.
· Both you and your children need to remember to give your dog some space. Do not stick your face in his. Depending on the dog’s mood, he may interpret it in different ways and you might find yourself with a bloody nose.
· Chasing is a favorite pastime of dogs. However, in your training, use commands that will discourage this action. Instinct may take over and the dog could tackle and bite you, even in play.
· Never bother a dog who is eating, nursing or sleeping. You will startle them and the fist reflex is usually the baring of teeth.
· Waving arms or dangling fingers could be an invitation for a dog to play and sometimes, that play involves biting. You don’t want to lose a digit or two.
· Always ask permission from the owner of another dog if it is ok to pet him.


