Even the most trustworthy pets may react instinctively by biting or scratching in certain circumstances.
Use these prevention strategies to protect yourself and your family:
- Spay or neuter your dogs and cats. This may reduce aggression.
- Keep your dog on a leash when in public.
- Regularly exercise your pet – bites and scratches sometimes occur when a pet is over excited or has too much energy.
- Never leave a dog unsupervised with an infant or child under six years of age.
- Never approach or pet an unfamiliar animal. Always ask animal owners if it is okay to approach or pet their pet.
- Do not attempt to separate 2 animals fighting each other with your hands. Use an item such as a broom or garden hose to break up the fight.
- Avoid running or jogging past a dog – they may chase or attack.
- Do not disturb an animal that is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- If threatened by a dog, follow these tips to reduce the chances of a bite
- Avoid eye contact
- Speak firmly
- Stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly – do not turn and run
- If you are knocked down, curl up in a ball and cover your head and neck
- Many dogs are protective of their property and family members, especially children.
- Never reach through a fence or open a door or gate to a home unannounced
- Tie up or restrain your dog when strangers such as mail or package delivery service workers are approaching your property
- Avoid allowing your child to take mail or packages from delivery service providers in the presence of a dog
- If you are driving onto a property where there is an unrestrained dog, stay in the car until the owner has control of their dog. Try calling the owner on the phone if possible.
- For delivery services: If delivering a parcel – mark item as “undeliverable” rather than risk being bitten.
Additional Information
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association: Bite Prevention Tips
CDC: Dogs, Healthy Pets, Healthy People
Leeds, Granville & Lanark District Health Unit: Any Dog Can Bite
Government of Ontario: Rabies in Pets
Doggone Safe Program
The Doggone Safe Program, offered by the Pet Professional Guide, provides training to become a dog bite prevention expert.
The Doggone Safe Program provides resources to promote child safety around dogs. They also provide resources for dog trainers, behavior consultants and pet care professionals to support dog bite prevention education.
Doggone Safe Program Resources
