Preventing Dog Bites
Fido will always be exactly as his ancestors were, wild and territorial. Humans have domesticated them, and even though we think they are our pet and will never harm someone, they still have the instinct of a wolf, to roam and protect.
-To Spay or not to Spay (or neuter)
Most people feel very personal about this choice, however, there have been cases where a dog that has been spayed or neutered has a reduced desire to “roam” and possibly fight with other dogs. Although varying cases in point will show, it is a personal choice and should be discussed with your Veterinarian.
-Proper Socialization
A dog that has been introduced to different environments, including but not limited to, Parks, Traffic, Pet Stores, Neighborhoods other than his own, as well as different people, tends to react very differently to many situations, making it less likely that they will bite with a nervous bite due to fear.
-Appropriate Behavior
Teaching your dog right from wrong is a key in point. Dogs that are allowed to play fight with you or someone else (ex: chasing someone or attacking someone in fun) is going to exacerbate the behavior that is being ingrained, they will think that it is okay to chase a person or other dog and bite them. They think they are playing and having fun, eventually equating this behavior with territorial behavior as well. If your Dog exhibits very rough behavior when you are playing with him, stop immediately and correct it. If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people seek help from your Veterinarian or a Professional Dog Trainer.
-Training
It sounds tedious and who wants to use up a weekend or weekday to train with your dog? You’d rather be doing other things. It’s important to stress Family involvement when taking your dog to an Obedience Class whether it be in a Group or Individual setting. It needs to be a family affair. Taking your dog to meet other dogs, other places and other people is good socialization. It’s a great way for families to spend time together, why not do it learning the proper techniques to train your family pet. Never send your dog away to be trained, the best method to train your dog, is your personal involvement in his training. There isn’t a positive thing about sending your dog away for training. The Trainer would have a different opinion in that he is getting cheated out of stealing your hard earned money.
-Responsibility
As a Dog owner, you made a conscious choice to bring a dog into your home, and now it is your responsibility to take proper care of him. Take your pet to regular check-ups with his Vet and ensure his Vaccinations are up to date. Never allow your dog to roam alone. Your dog is a member of your family, why allow him to squander his time just sitting around not being active and being social? A dog that spends too much time alone is a time bomb waiting to happen, not to mention those dogs kept in backyards all day without human interaction, except for water and food exchange, sounds like a prison to me. Other types of dogs that are susceptible to aggressive behavior are those that are tied by a chain, and that can be very dangerous. If your dog is well socialized and has proper supervision, he is less likely to bite.
Finally, be proactive. If you know your dog, whether newly acquired as an adult or a new puppy, is nervous around crowds or does not react well in different situations, first leave them at home and then seek the help of a Professional Trainer. If you know your dog will not react well with guests to your home, ensure he is already Crate Trained so that he may go into his “den” where he feels safe and be okay while you take care of your guests or anyone else who happens to stop by.
A professional Trainer will help you and your pet Co-exist and learn new behaviors and have a calmer and relaxed pet as well as yourself as the outcome. Avoid situations where you “know” he will not do well. Don’t worry, dogs live in the moment, he will not get his feelings hurt, as long as you reward his quiet behavior in the den after you let him out.
