There is nothing funny about dog bite injuries to the more than 4.7 million victims of dog bites each year. Most of them are children. Dog bites are not caused by bad dogs but by irresponsible dog owners. Dogs who have not been properly socialized, who are not supervised or safely confined, who have not be spayed or neutered, or who receive little attention are the most likely to bite a person.

You can prevent your dog from biting: spay or neuter your dog and it will three times less likely to bite; provide socialization and obedience training - basic manners taught with praise will make a canine a good citizen rather than a terrorist. Dogs are pack animals and should live inside with their family rather than being isolated outside.

Children should leave a strange dog along. Both fearful or aggressive dogs can bite. Don't run from a dog; instead stand still, with arms down at your side, and look down - away from the dog. Teach children to 'be a tree' and smaller children to curl up in a 'rock position.'

Do not play 'attack' games with your dog. It may encourage behavior that includes biting. Substitute toys instead of hands. The Oregon Humane Society's Education Department cautions people to not challenge a dog by staring, baring teeth, taking its food or toys, or bothering a new litter.

Quick Tips