A Deno Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Poodle (unknown type)

What to Do When a Dog Bites

 

If you’re present when a dog bites someone, it can be difficult to decide what to do. Should you hurt the dog to break his attention? Should you get help? Should you yell at the dog? The decisions you make can determine the difference between a bite and release, or a bite that requires medical attention.

 

Don’t squeal.
Don’t run.

 

These behaviors can fuel a dog’s prey instinct.

 

Many times, kicking or hitting a dog will only escalate the dog bite.

 

If you yell at the dog, and he doesn’t immediately snap out of it, continued yelling will only escalate his behavior.

 

And you don’t have to hurt a dog to intervene. The dog is doing what dogs do- If someone’s behavior triggered his prey drive instinct, we shouldn’t expect him to do anything less than respond in a predictable manner and treat the trigger as a prey animal. You shouldn’t hurt a dog for being a dog. That’s why education is the most important intervention.

 

A fire extinguisher is good to break up a dog fight or a dog bite. Every home should have one, and spraying a dog with a fire extinguisher will usually end his instinctive haze immediately.

 

If a fire extinguisher isn’t available, throw a blanket over two fighting dogs or spray them with a hose. Be sure to cover the face, ears, eyes to block out their senses.

 

 

 

Protective Biting

 

A new study shows 80% of dogs do not like being hugged. They interpret kisses and hugs as an invasion of their space and may bite to protect the integrity of that space.

 

Invading a dog’s space can instigate a dog bite as he protects himself from a perceived threat. Some dogs are fine with hugs and kisses, others are not. Know the dog and never assume you can invade his personal space without triggering a protective instinct.

 

And that personal space sometime can extend to the couch, the living room, or the front yard. It’s important to be aware of a dog’s body language and act appropriately when he sends out warning signs. If you’re visiting a new dog, speak to the owner in advance and find out how the dog views his territory and what his triggers are- so you can avoid a dog bite situation.

 

Being in a dog’s territory when he doesn’t want you there is like smacking him in the face. It’s a challenge. You may be bigger and smarter, but he will defend what he believes is his. This may mean a dog will try to bite you as a leave a home or yard. Turn your back and the dog takes that as an opportunity he’s been waiting for since you issued the challenge and entered his domain.

 

Couches and elevated surfaces are often places where dog bites take place. Any time you’re in close proximity to a dog, be aware of your body and make sure to respect his personal space.

 

Dog bite prevention week is in May. Education truly is the key to preventing a dog bite. Share this infographic to help raise awareness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source: TruDog.com