Dog Bite Prevention

A bit of prevention will help reduce the risk of injury, expense, and heartache due to dog bites.

How should I meet an owned dog?

  • Practice your ABSCs
    • Ask the owner if you can pet the dog.
    • Bend down so you dont’ tower over the dog.
    • Let the dog sniff your closed fist.
    • Pet the dog under the chin or on the chest.
  • Approach slowly and quietly.
  • Do not pet the dog if his owner has to physically restrain him, or if the dog does not approach you (even if the owner says it’s okay).
  • Do not hug the dog, or put your face in the dog’s face.

What clues will a dog give me about whether or not I can pet him?

  • GREEN LIGHT
    • Ears are pricked, but relaxed
    • Body and tail are relaxed
    • Mouth is relaxed into a smile
    • Body is in “play bow” position
    • Tail and eyes are relaxed (or tail is possibly wiggly)
  • RED LIGHT
    • Back is hunched, he’s cowering, or he is close to the ground
    • Ears are pricked and forward
    • Body is tense and forward
    • Eyes are glared
    • Teeth are bared
    • Expression is worried
    • Or, if he’s sleeping or eating, playing with a toy or chew, or caring for her puppies.

What should I do if I see a stray dog?

  • DO NOT RUN. The dog may chase you.
  • DO NOT PET. Some dogs may be dangerous, infected by parasites, or carry disease.
  • Become a “tree.” Stand very still and put your fists under your chin.
  • Keep the dog in sight, but do not look him in the eye. The dog may view direct eye contact as a challenge.
  • Back into a wall or fence. When dogs stalk, they circle their prey. Walk slowly with your back against the wall or fence in order to get to safety.
  • Call Animal Care Services. If the pet is lost, this his best chance to be reunited with his family.
  • What if a dog jumps on me and knocks me to the ground?

    BECOME A ROCK!

    • Curl up on the ground to protect your stomach and face (knees down on the ground).
    • Stay very still.
    • Put your fists over the back of your neck to protect your throat and neck.

    What should I do if a dog bites?

    • Wash the wound carefully and immediately see a doctor
    • Report the bite to your local animal control agency and the health department

    Please note, articles in the Animal Resource Library are for reference only, and are not meant to diagnose or treat any medical or behavioral issues your pet may be experiencing.