Most dogs are very friendly, but many dogs will bite if they think they have to. The dog that bites is not necessarily a mean dog or a bad dog; he is just a dog. Dog bites occur for a variety of reasons, so by understanding how dogs think, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting bitten.

Dogs are more likely to bite when they are: Scared: If a dog feels concerned or thinks you are going to hurt him, he will react by running away or maybe by growling, showing his teeth or trying to bite you. Protecting their territory or puppies: Dogs can be protective of their territory and their family. If you invade a dog’s space by coming into his territory or coming up to pet her pup, the dog may think you are a threat and may try to bite you. Poorly trained, socialized and managed: Dogs that do not know how to behave appropriately in different situations or that have not experienced and become comfortable with things in our world do not know that it is not appropriate to be aggressive. Dogs are not humans, and we cannot expect them to be just like us. Dogs need to learn positively how to live with us and behave appropriately. They need to be put away (in their crate or another room) if you are unable to supervise them or if you have other kids visiting.

Feeling ill or hurt: Dogs may bite when they are sick or hurt. If a dog is bitten by a sick animal (another dog, cat, fox, raccoon, skunk, etc.), the bite may not be obvious. When we approach the bitten dog, he does not know if we are trying to help him or hurt him. So, always call an adult to examine a sick or injured dog, even if he is your own dog. Overly excited: Sometimes dogs get overexcited! If you are teasing a dog or playing roughly, he may snap or bite. Dogs use their teeth like we use our hands. Always play gently, making sure that the dog is enjoying it. Sleeping/Eating/Playing with toys: Startling a dog awake can lead to a bite. Just like us, he might be grumpy. Dogs can also be protective of their food and toys and are more likely to bite if they think you are trying to take away their food or toy. Remember, any dog can bite – regardless of breed or mix. There is no 100% safe breed or mix. Even the cuddliest, fuzziest, sweetest dog can bite if he thinks he has to.

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Please review each of the six sections before you take the Dog Safety Quiz.