Just got a new addition to the family? A dog can be a loyal companion however it can also be a big liability. Lack of training, failure to correct aggressive behavior, or general irresponsible dog ownership can all end up with someone getting seriously injured by your animal. We’ve compiled a list of 8 ways you can prevent dog bites which may help you avoid a situation where someone gets injured by your dog. Of course if you are already in a situation where you need an experienced dog bite attorney, we are here to help.
Check out these simple ways to help prevent your dog from becoming aggressive!:
1. Socialize Your Dog: If you just brought home a new puppy, the best thing to do is to introduce them to as many places, other dogs, and people as possible! Assuming they have all their shots, that is. A well-socialized pup is less likely to grow up to be aggressive and fearful of new situations.
2. Spay or Neuter Your Pup: Although having your dog spayed or neutered does not guarantee that he will never bite, there is a chance that he will be calmer and less aggressive!
3. Don’t Make Assumptions: ANY dog has the potential to bite. So don’t make any assumptions. Too often, people are bitten by dogs because they assume their dog won’t be a biter because of their breed or size.
4. Work on Obedience Training: An obedient dog is easier to control. You can use basic commands to keep your dog focused and comfortable. He is less likely to bite if he can hold his behavior.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your pup for good behavior rather than punishing him often for not doing the right thing. Punishment includes hitting, leash corrections, and physically rolling a dog over. A study found that dogs trained using punishment are 25% more likely to respond with aggression than other dogs.
6. Be Aware of Body Language: Dogs use body language to communicate. Pay attention to what your dog’s body language is. A dog who is afraid or unhappy about having his territory invaded has the potential to bite. Look out for bared teeth, raised hackles, a lowered head, or ears lying flat against the head.
7. Don’t Stop a Dog’s Growls: Your dog growls to let you know he is uncomfortable with a person or situation. It is a warning sign that he may bite! Our impulse is to teach our dogs not to growl. Try understanding what his growl means first. Is he growling at a child running by? At his food bowl or a person cornering him? Once you know why he is growling, you can begin a dog training program to teach your dog to become more comfortable in those situations.
8. Find a Dog Trainer: Aggression can be a challenging behavior to deal with as an owner. If you believe your dog may become aggressive and dangerous to those, who come in contact with him, hire a dog trainer or animal behaviorist.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured from a dog bite, you may have a case! Call us for a free consultation today.
