Over 4.5 million people are attacked by dogs each year in the United States. That estimate may even be low, since not all bites are reported. While most bites are minor, up to 800,000 annually require medical attention. Unfortunately, some dog attacks prove lethal. Others can cause severe injuries and/or deformity. Continue reading to learn more about dog bites from a local Westminster, MD veterinarian.

The Statistics On Dog Bites

Overall, dog bite incidents have decreased in recent years. This could be due to a variety of causes, including stricter leash restrictions, the effects of spay/neuter awareness campaigns, and a better understanding of how to properly care for Fido. The fact that the population of stray canines is decreasing also helps. There’s still a long way to go, but things appear to be moving in the right direction with this.

Are Stray Dogs Generally Unsafe?

Stray dogs are responsible for around 15% of all reported bites. However, strays are not inherently evil. Many are former pets that have fallen on hard times through no fault of their own. In fact, many of our favorite patients are former strays, who are now happy, cherished pets. 

That said, it’s necessary to be aware of a few things.

Many factors contribute to strays’ tendency to bite. Many strays were not properly socialized and may be distrustful of humans. Others have escaped or been abandoned by cruel owners, and also have plenty of reason to be wary. Strays also must fight to survive and by necessity tend to be fiercely protective of food and puppies. Finally, strays do not receive sufficient veterinary treatment. This puts them at danger of becoming ill or wounded, and of course increases the likelihood of them feeling sick or in pain. That, of course, will just make them more liable to snap.

Why Is the Post Office Raising Awareness About Dog Bites?

Postal workers are among the most commonly bitten. In reality, nearly 5300 postal employees reported being assaulted by dogs in 2022. That may sound like joke fodder, but it really isn’t funny. It’s also not hard to see that many dogs view postmen as intruders.

You can take a few steps to ensure that your canine companion does not contribute to the frequency of postal carrier attacks. If your pooch has any aggressive or protective tendencies, you’ll definitely want to take extra precautions. 

First and foremost, always keep your canine companion secure, either indoors or in fenced areas.

It’s ideal if you have a fenced yard for Fido. Even if you do, you should set up your property so that visitors can access your entrance or front porch without being in direct contact with your dog. (This also minimizes the chances of your puppy running away.)

If your dog is territorial and/or aggressive, you may need to take further precautions, such as receiving packages at a PO Box and/or posting signs. This may be inconvenient, but it is significantly less so than a lawsuit or a medical bill. That’s not even to mention the stress and distress an incident would cause. 

We would also recommend behavioral training. 

How Can I Protect Myself from Dog Bites?

In some ways, one of the most effective ways to protect oneself from dog bites is to avoid common myths about dog attacks.

A common misperception regarding this subject is that dogs attack without warning. While dogs may appear to snap unexpectedly, this is actually quite rare. In most cases, Fido sent out some rather obvious (to him) messages. However, not everyone can read them. 

It is also wrong to think that because Fido is small or cute, he will not bite. The Chihuahua is an excellent example of a little but energetic dog who can be quite feisty.

Having said that, here are some tips:

• Never hurry or run past a dog.
• Do not try to pet or disturb a sleeping, feeding, or nursing dog. Many dogs will instinctively respond defensively.
• Never reach out to pet a dog through a fence.
• Never tease a dog.
• Don’t try to touch a dog’s puppies without owner permission.
• Do not attempt to pet a strange or injured dog.
• If a strange dog approaches you, stay still. Don’t make eye contact.

Children are often the victim of dog bites. It’s important to teach your little one about these things as well. 

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Dogs can bite for several reasons. In most cases, Fido is responding to something.

Here are some possible reasons:

• They feel threatened.
• They’re protecting someone or something.
• They may be afraid.
• They may be unwell or injured.
• They may become extremely thrilled while playing Prey Drive.
• They may have a negative connotation with something.

Other aspects to consider are breed, history, and socialization. Ask your Westminster, MD vet for more tips.

How Can I Protect My Child from Dog Bites?

Unfortunately, children make up an unusually large proportion of dog bite attacks. There are several factors to consider here. The fact that children are small in stature is undoubtedly one factor. Plus, many children naturally have loud voices, which can startle and frighten Fido. Children are also known for their fast movements and clumsiness. 

Never leave your youngster with a dog unattended. Also, teach children not to bother Fido, chase him, or touch his toys or food. Man’s Best Buddy can be an excellent friend and companion for children, but he’s still a dog, with dogs’ instincts.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Biting People?

In our book, no dogs are born bad. However, there are many bad owners, situations, and memories, which can bring out the worst in our canine companions.

If your dog bites someone, you could face serious legal consequences. Furthermore, you may find yourself accountable for medical treatment, legal fees, and other costs. Your dog may also be impounded or, in certain situations, euthanized. 

Fortunately, taking basic precautions can go a long way here.

• Adopt wisely. This all starts with selecting the proper dog. If you have young children, you’ll want a gentle, calm puppy rather than one with anxiety and a high prey drive.
• Don’t Skip Socialization: Socialization has a significant impact on Fido’s personality. Ask your veterinarian for advice.
• Get Fido Fixed: Spaying and neutering can also help significantly. Unneutered males are responsible for the vast majority of attacks.
• Proper Training: Ensure that Fido understands (and obeys) basic instructions like Sit, Stay, and Come.
• Regular Veterinary Care: Dogs, like humans, frequently become irritable when they are ill or injured. Make sure your dog is up to date on checkups, vaccinations, and parasite control.
• Security: Never let your dog run loose!
• Behavioral Training: If you know or believe that your dog is fearful or aggressive, consult your Westminster, MD veterinarian about behavioral training.

Of course, there’s a lot to be said for basic TLC. Fido’s happiness is a good thing!

How Can I Tell if a Dog Is About to Bite?

Those who are unfamiliar with dog body language may find some elements of it difficult to interpret. For example, we all know that growling is a severe red flag and is frequently the biggest warning before a dog attacks. However, many of the other clues are easily missed. A wagging tail, for example, is commonly seen as a sign of a puppy’s happiness. However, this is only true when Fido is wagging his tail rapidly and is generally cheerful. A sluggish wag is sometimes indicative of uncertainty.

Here’s what to look for:

• Slow Tail Wags
• Growls
• Showing The Whites Of The Eyes.
• Raised Hackles
• Licking The Lips
• Tucked Tail
• Bared Teeth
• Stiffness
• Yawns
• Barking Instead Of Retreating
• Aggressive Body Language Or Attitude
• Ears Flattened
• Staring

If you observe any of these, slowly back away while avoiding eye contact.

Book An Appointment At Our Westminster, MD Pet Hospital

Is your dog due for a checkup? Contact us here at your pet hospital today!