There are over 70 million dogs living in households across the nation. While most of us love our furry companions and regard them as family members, it can be easy to forget that dogs are not humans, and they can sometimes act or lash out in unexpected ways. This is especially true if a dog feels scared or distressed.

This translates to over 4.5 million bites a year, with 20% of those who were bit requiring medical attention. Needless to say, it’s important for everyone to familiarize themselves with dog body language as well as take steps to take in order to minimize the chances of being bit.

A few steps can ensure that your loved ones are safe from dog bites, and prevent your furry companion from having to be put down after an unfortunate incident. Here’s what you should keep in mind when looking to prevent dog bites:

Ensure that your dog is socialized: Dogs need exposure to other dogs and people, especially children. This helps them learn how to behave around a variety of other people/animals as well as deal with potentially stressful situations.

Become familiar with your dog’s body language: Dogs might not be able to speak, but they are very expressive with their non-verbal communication. There are many tells for when a dog is being playful, aggressive, sad, and more. Take the time to study this topic and above all, observe your dog to better understand his/her unique body language and behavior.

Teach children how to approach and play with dogs: A large percentage of dog bites are a result of someone mishandling a dog, or approaching it the wrong way. Kids especially need to understand how to interact with dogs in a way that is safe for everyone, as they can lose sight of their own actions in the excitement of seeing a cute furry friend.

Hire a dog trainer for your pet: If you have some underlying concerns, or simply want to take your dog’s training to the next level, you should rely on a dog trainer to help you regulate your pet’s behavior.

Were you Bitten by a Dog in California?

We hope this post helped provide you with some useful tips as you navigate life with your furry friend on your side. To learn more about dog bites, or if you’ve been bitten by a dog and want to explore your options with a personal injury attorney, remember that we at the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis are a phone call away.

Reach out to us at (209) 528-0404 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced legal professionals.