A canine’s canines aren’t just for eating. So Here’s the point – and it can be a painful one. More than 4 million people are bitten by dogs every year. The number of recorded dog bite injuries is significantly higher in children, the elderly and service providers such as mail carriers and meter readers.
While you can’t totally take the bite out of the dog, you can avoid his taking a bite out of you. Here’s how:
SPAY OR NEUTER YOUR DOG
This will reduce his desire to roam and fight with other dogs. Spayed or neutered dogs are one-third as likely to bite.
TRAIN YOUR DOG
Accompany him to a training class; it’s an excellent way to both train and socialize. And make it a family matter. Every member of your household should learn the training techniques and participate in your dog’s education.
PLAY NICE
Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Don’t play aggressive games such as wrestling, tug-of-war or “siccing” your dog on another person. Set appropriate limits for your dog’s behavior.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
License your dog as required by law and provide regular veterinary care, including rabies vaccinations. Don’t allow your dog to roam. Dogs who are well-socialized and supervised rarely bite. If you don’t know how your dog will react to a new situation, be cautious. If he may panic in crowds, leave him at home. If he overreacts to visitors or delivery persons, keep him in another room. In short, avoid stressful settings until you are confident of his behavior.
