Dogs are some of the friendliest creatures you will encounter. However, just like any animal, safety comes first.
About 4.5 million cases of dog bites are accounted for in the United States alone, with pit bulls as the leading breed causing those bites. Even with your friendly pets at home, taking precautions around any dog would make interactions more comfortable and safe for you and your family.
Simple Ways to Prioritize Safety with Dogs
Safety measures for kids
Any dogs, even ones that seem friendly, may bite when provoked–especially around active kids. Teaching them appropriate ways to behave around pet dogs will reduce the chance of any dangerous incidents.
Do not approach dogs who are nursing puppies, eating, or chewing on a bone. Dogs can be territorial, so they will likely bite when frightened, caring for their pups, or startled.
Ask the dog’s guardian first if you or your kids can approach. It’s essential to let the dog sniff a closed hand first to allow them to become more familiar with the child. Avoid touching the head portion and go for the chest or shoulders instead.
If a loose dog comes barking near your child, it’s best to have the child stand still, and both of you should avoid eye contact with the dog — canines see eye contact as a sign of aggression. From here, both you and the child can move away safely.
Safety measures for adults
Dog owners need to practice responsible pet ownership to keep themselves, their families, and the community safe from aggressive dog behaviors.
Understanding your dog’s body language will keep you from harm. Deep down, most aggressive dogs are scared. Outwardly aggressive dogs tend to make themselves look larger with ears forward, tails perked up (with or without wagging), and their bodies stiff. It’s best to avoid dogs exhibiting these signs. It’s important to remember that just because a dog is wagging its tail doesn’t mean the dog is feeling friendly.
Similar to aggressive dogs, it’s also best to avoid anxious dogs. You can spot an anxious dog because they tend to crouch, lower their heads, flatten their ears, lick their lips repeatedly, pant heavily, and may also place their tails in between their legs.
There might be instances where you may see your dog showing a mixture of these signs. If you’re unsure, it’s best to avoid them to keep everyone safe.
Dog safety precautions for pet owners
If you’re looking to adopt a dog from a shelter, search for reliable shelters whose staff and volunteers can relay the pet’s behavior, background, and personality. You can identify that the dogs in these shelters are well taken care of.
It’s always a good idea to neuter or spay your pets. Neutered dogs are usually less aggressive – plus, they won’t accidentally have a litter of puppies.
When you adopt a dog, you should immediately consult with a dog trainer about how best to help your dog feel safe. They will often recommend that you take your furry friend to meet other dogs and people, as well as experience new places and things. Doing this makes them more comfortable in numerous situations – and remember that dogs with aggressive behavior are often anxious and scared. So helping them feel calm and non-threatened can reduce any aggressive and biting tendencies.
When you know your dog well, you will be aware of triggering factors causing aggressive behavior. Sickness, pain, or stranger anxieties may be common triggers for biting – they feel like they need to defend themselves. If you see any signs of panic, anxiety, or fear, it’s best to separate them into a different space or room, away from other people and dogs, so they can de-escalate.
Conclusion
Understanding your pet’s behavior, and dog behavior, in general, is an excellent way to avoid dog bites. Plus, it never hurts to keep your pets comfortable anywhere. The Pets Kingdom Pet Shop provides all their creature comforts like harnesses, collars, and training supplies to ensure their safety and allow your pet to enjoy more out of life.