Friday, May 30, 2014

Biters


As my little dog is growing up, she is starting to take on new habits. More barking, more whining when we eat infront of her, and more biting. She doesn't "bite" down, she simply puts her teeth around your skin and presses lightly. Considering I play with her a lot, there are times when I worry she might go all the way and tear off my whole face. Thankfully, I think she loves me way to much to even consider that. But, as in anything, there are exceptions, and some dogs really do bite. Whether an accident or a defense mechanism, when dogs bite, they are automatically labeled as dangerous. 


To reduce the chances of your dog biting someone
  • Spay and Neuter them. Why? This will eliminate the desire for them to fight with other dogs. 
  • Introduce your dog to different types of people so that they will become accustomed to these situations
  • Train the dog with your family so that everyone knows how to control him when needed. When training, teach your dog what they can run after, chase, and set limits for what is and what isn't right. 
  • Know your dog. If your dog is one to become nervous around groups of people, don't take him to crowded areas. Spend time with them. Dogs who are left in a backyard are more likely to become dangerous in comparison to dogs that are with people often.
To reduce your chance of getting bitten by a dog

Respect It. Dogs are like humans, they don't like strangers that much. At least not without first seeing and smelling you. Don't try to mess with it while it's eating, chewing on a toy, or feeding puppies. Know body language signs. A dog who is angry will have or be:




  • tensed body
  • stiff tail
  • pulled back head and/or ears
  • furrowed brow
  • eyes rolled so the whites are visible
  • flicking tongue
  • intense stare
  • backing away

  • When you feel like you might get attacked, do not run and scream; the dog will chase you. Try to not make eye contact and wait calmly. The dog will lose interest in you and then you can slowly walk away. If that doesn't work, grab something that the dog can bite onto, like a jacket or a skateboard. 


    I remember as a child, I was terrified of dogs, and while I rode my bike, there always happened to be a dog on the loose that would chase after me. I thought it wanted to bite me, but it probably just wanted to chase something. I wish I would've known then to just stop and calm down! Would've saved me a ton of anxiety. 

    Make sure to update your pet tags! 


    Courtesy of the Humane Society

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