Dog Bite Prevention
Dog bites affect hundreds of Canadians each year, many of the victims being children. However, most dog bites are preventable.
Tips to Prevent Dog Bites
- Only approach a dog if you have permission from the owner. If the owner isn’t there, stay away from the dog.
- When you have permission to pet a dog, let the dog sniff the back of
your hand and move slowly and speak quietly. Pet gently on his back or
sides.
- Understand dog body language. For example, ears, tail and fur standing straight up and some signs the dog is angry (stay away).
- Never cut through someone’s yard even if you know the people. You could run into a dog that might bite you.
- Don’t run or make loud noises around strange dogs. Always move slowly and quietly.
- Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or looking after puppies
- Don’t try to take any toys, food or any other object from a dog’s mouth
- If a strange dog is approaching you, stand like a tree:
- Stand still and be quiet – hands stuck to your sides, face down looking at the ground, feet rooted firmly into the ground.
- Don’t try to run away because the dog may chase you. A dog is more likely to sniff you and go away if you stay still.
- Don’t stare into the dog’s eyes.
- If the dog tries to grab you, try to let him have your jacket or backpack, etc. so there is something between you and the dog.
- If you fall or are knocked down, curl up into a ball with your hands
over your ears and stay still - try not to scream or roll around - wait
for help to arrive before getting up
Also see:
Children and Dogs,
Why Dogs Bite: A Guide for Children
