Most people realize that any dog, no matter the size or breed has the potential to bite, whether it be another dog or a person. Dog bites are extremely common and often end up in court. There are some things you should know about how to avoid dog bites and possible legal action.

The first and most obvious thing is to know your dog's temperament and his or her tolerance for different stressful situations that could provoke a bite. Small dogs are actually just as likely to bite as a bigger dog. The main difference is the amount of damage caused by a small dog, versus the bite of a larger dog. Some breeds or breed mixes may be more prone to biting, not because they are a "vicious" breed,  but because they were bred for a certain purpose. A herding dog, like a border collie, uses its mouth to move the animals its herding, so he may try to do that with a group of children. Hunting dogs have a high prey drive and may be likely to chase after other animals or small kids that are running around. Guard and protection dogs, may react to what they determine is a threat. In all these cases, proper socialization to other people and situations is crucial.

What would cause a dog to bite? It is usually a case of fight or flight because the dog feels stressed or threatened. A child playing with a dog may be teasing the dog without realizing it.  A dog that is sick or in pain may also be likely to bite. There are warning signs to watch for that can help you avoid a dog bite. Aside from the dog growling and baring its teeth, a dog that is agitated will stiffen its body and tail. The hair on the dog's back often stands up and, if you can see the whites of the dog's eyes, this is a sign that he or she is ready to attack. The best thing to do in this situation is to slowly back away from the dog. Keep your eyes averted and your head lowered. This will signal submission and the dog may back down. Although it may seem like the best thing, do not turn and run away. This tells the dog that he should chase you. If it is possible, put something between you and the dog. You can even wrap your forearm in a jacket and use that to protect your head and neck.

A dog that is panting without his or her tongue hanging out is stressed. Other behaviors that could indicate a dog is feeling stressed or threatened include nervous actions like, shaking, biting his paw, sudden interest in self grooming or unusual interest in a familiar object. These actions are things to dog may do to avoid or distract itself from whatever is causing the agitation.

If you have a dog that can not be trusted to be around people without a threat of a biting incident, you should keep your dog separated from people, either by keeping him crated, or in a fenced area. If you need to take your dog out in public, to the vet for instance, use a muzzle on your dog.

If your dog bites someone, be as polite and accommodating as possible. Be apologetic and offer to get a copy of your dog's vaccination records. Offer to drive them to the doctor or hospital. Offer to pay or have your insurance pay the bills. Write down the name of the victim, when and where it happened, and what the person and the dog were doing at the time of the incident. If there were any witnesses to the incident, get their names and contact information in case there is a lawsuit.

With some knowledge and care, dog bites can usually be avoided. They are traumatic for everyone involved. You  must be a responsible dog owner to protect people and other animals from your dog, and protect you and your dog from the consequences of a dog bite situation. 

 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_M_Sabol