Dog Bites & Attacks

Dog bites and attacks can be very serious. They are most common in children, elderly people and delivery people. About 4.5 million people suffer from a dog bite or attack each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes, "Among children, the rate of dog bite--related injuries is highest for those ages 5 to 9 years, and children are more likely than adults to receive medical attention for dog bites than adults." A dog bite can also be fatal.

  1. Why Dogs Bite/Attack

    • There are several reasons why a dog may bite, including fear, to protect territory or to establish dominance over his victim. Pet Place notes, "Some dog owners mistakenly teach their dogs that biting is an acceptable form of play behavior."

    Damage

    • A person who is attacked by a dog may be affected physically and emotionally. Many victims suffer from physical wounds and need medical treatment. Treatment may include grafting and microsurgical repair, which may require several surgeries over time. Scar diminishment treatments and pressure scar modification may also be necessary. In addition, a person who has been bit by a dog may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and even with treatment may always fear being attacked again.

    What Not to Do

    • Never punish you dog, as it can only make him more fearful and more likely to bite someone. The Humane Society of the United State notes, "Attempting to punish or dominate a dominantly aggressive dog may actually lead him to escalate his behavior to retain his dominant position. This is likely to result in a bite or a severe attack."

    Prevention

    • Spaying or neutering dogs helps prevent aggression, especially in male dogs. Supervising your dog may also prevent your dog from biting or attacking. Socialization is also very important. It is important that dogs spend time with friends, family, the public and other animals. This should start at a young age and should continue even as they get older. In addition, dogs should never be left without supervision. Always have someone outside with them or have them in a fenced in yard. They should not roam free in the neighborhood or be chained up outside, as this causes stress, which can lead to aggression. Dogs left alone may feel defensive, uncertain or overly confident.
      According to the American Humane Association, "Eighty-eight percent of fatal dog attacks among 2-year-olds occurred when the child was left unsupervised."

    Warning

    • Dogs may give a warning before they bite. Signs may be growling, baring teeth, snarling and snapping. If you have been bitten by a dog it is important to know what dog bit you. If you do not know the dog that bit you, as a precaution, you should get treatment against rabies. In addition, take action to prevent any future attacks by the same dog. If a dog has bitten you it's important to see your doctor immediately.