At Pet HelpMate, we love dogs—whether we’re giving them treats, playing with them, or even handling the less glamorous task of cleaning up. However, we also understand that some dogs may be wary of unfamiliar faces in their space. That’s why we ensure our technicians are trained in dog bite prevention and know how to spot signs of potential aggression. With over 4.5 million dog bites happening each year in the U.S., it’s crucial to learn how to keep yourself and your family safe around dogs.
Here are three important dog bite prevention tips to help you and your loved ones avoid risks and enjoy safe, positive interactions with dogs.
Preventing dog bites starts with being a responsible pet owner.
Many bites occur when people approach dogs without proper caution. Always let the dog know you’re there before interacting.
Stay Calm and Avoid Eye Contact: If a dog seems nervous, remain calm, keep your hands at your sides, and avoid staring directly at them, as this can be seen as a threat. If necessary, slowly step away once the dog is no longer interested.
Teasing a dog, even unintentionally, can lead to aggression. Make sure both children and adults know how to interact with dogs appropriately.
Experts like Doctors Foster and Smith emphasize the importance of spaying or neutering, early socialization, and consistent supervision to prevent dog bites. They also encourage teaching children how to safely approach and interact with dogs, along with recognizing the warning signs of aggression.
The non-profit group Doggone Safe advocates for positive reinforcement training and advises against physical punishment. Their well-known “Be a Tree” strategy is especially helpful for kids to use when confronted with an unfamiliar or aggressive dog.
Cesar Millan, known as the “Dog Whisperer,” stresses the importance of managing energy levels and maintaining boundaries when around dogs. He advises parents to teach children proper dog etiquette to ensure positive, safe interactions.
At Pet HelpMate, we’ve spent years helping pet owners with more than just waste management. We also provide expert advice to help keep your pets and your family safe. Ensuring safety is just as important to us as maintaining a clean environment.
Once you’ve ensured safe interactions with your dog, let Pet HelpMate handle the cleanup! Our pooper scooper services make it easy to keep your yard fresh and clean. Book your service today at 805-Pet-Help or visit PetHelpMate.com to learn more about how we can help.