Preventing dog bites
Throughout the Americas, millions of people are bitten by dogs every year, producing serious injuries and even death. School-age children are the most common victims, and most are bitten by dogs they already know. Teaching children how to behave around dogs and having dog owners follow some basic rules can help prevent dog bites in children and adults.
Tips for kids
- Never approach a strange dog.
- Before petting any dog, ask its owner's permission.
- Never pet a dog that is eating, drinking, sleeping or caring for its puppies.
- Don't pet a dog that's inside a car or behind a fence.
- Never try to take anything from a dog's mouth or try to break up a dog fight.
- Never run from a dog. Stand still with your hands at your sides and look away from his face. If knocked to the ground, curl into a ball and cover your ears with your hands until the dog goes away.
- Always have an adult around when you play with any dog.
- If a dog bites you, tell an adult immediately.
Tips for owners
- Have your dog spayed or neutered. Sterilized dogs are much less likely to bite.
- Don't leave your dog fenced or chained outdoors for long periods. Dogs that are treated as part of the family are much less likely to bite.
- Introduce your dog to a variety of people and settings, as well as to other dogs.
- Take your dog to a training class and make sure every member of your household helps with his training.
- Don't teach your dog to chase or attack others, even for fun, and avoid playing "tug-of-war."
- Know your dog's limits. If he is nervous in crowds, leave him at home. If he acts aggressively toward visitors or delivery people, keep him away from them.
- If your dog behaves threateningly toward anyone, get help from a veterinarian or a qualified dog trainer.
- Be responsible. License your dog, give him regular veterinary care and vaccinations, and never let him roam free.