Dog Bite Legal Center

Dog safety tips for owners

  • If you are not a breeder, you should spay or neuter your dog. When dogs are spayed or neutered, their aggressive tendencies are oftentimes reduced. In fact, the Humane Society of the United States reports that spayed and neutered dogs are three times less likely to bite.

  • Socialize your dog. This means introducing your dog to a variety of people, other dogs, and experiences. A well-socialized dog is much less likely to become nervous or frightened under normal circumstances.

  • Train your dog. Dog training is a family affair, and each family member should participate. You and your family can learn proper training techniques by attending a dog-training class. These classes will also help to socialize your dog.

  • Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Your dog should be submissive, not aggressive. A dog is being submissive when it rolls over and exposes its belly or relinquishes food without growling. These behaviors can be taught.

  • Don't teach aggression. A dog learns aggression when an owner plays games such as wrestling, tug-of-war, or siccing the dog on another person. Never play these games or encourage any type of aggressive behavior.

  • If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior, immediately consult a professional, such as a veterinarian, an animal behaviorist, or a reputable breeder.

  • Never leave infants or small children alone with any dog.

  • License your dog as required by law, and provide regular veterinary care.

  • Never allow your dog to roam.

  • Obey all dog laws, including leash laws. So often at parks that require dogs to be leashed at all times, we see owners letting their dogs run free. This is not only against the law, it is also dangerous.

  • Spend time with your dog. Dogs who are left alone for long periods of time in a crate, outside, or tied up often become dangerous. Well-socialized and supervised dogs rarely bite.

  • Know your dog and try to understand its behavior. If you are uncertain how your dog will react to a new situation, be extremely cautious. If you think your dog will over react or panic in a certain situation, it's best to leave him at home.

Read more dog safety and dog bite prevention tips.

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