Jeffco Health Dept. Update - Man's Best Friend and You: Preventing Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause serious injuries and emotional trauma, but with the right knowledge and precautions, these incidents can be significantly reduced. Since the beginning of the year, Jefferson County has had twelve reported dog bites, and we are on pace to have over forty for the year. With these ten easy tips, the hope is to promote safer interactions with “Man’s Best Friend.” However, even if everything is done correctly, dogs may still bite.

1. Education, Both You and Others: Understanding dog behavior is crucial. Learn to recognize signs of stress or aggression in dogs, such as growling, showing teeth, the raising of hair on the top of the neck, and less obvious signs such as stiffening of the body. Educate children and adults alike on interacting with dogs respectfully and safely.

2. Promote Proper Training and Socializing: Well-trained and socialized dogs are less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. Enroll your dog in obedience classes and expose it to various environments and situations. Breaking up a dogfight could get you or others bitten. Keep that in mind, and be very careful when doing so.

3. Discourage Rough Play: Avoid roughhousing and aggressive play with dogs, which can lead to unintentional bites.

4. Supervise Interactions: Never leave young children unsupervised with dogs, especially unfamiliar ones. Teach children to approach dogs calmly and ask for permission from the owner before petting the dog. According to the American Kennel Club, “Never reach over the dog’s muzzle or top of their head to pet them unless you have first slowly presented the back of your hand and are getting positive feedback from the dog.”

5. Respect the Dog’s Space: Dogs are very territorial and need their space. They may become defensive if approached too quickly or intrusively. Avoid petting dogs that are sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.

6. Regular Veterinary Care: Ensure your dog receives regular veterinary check-ups. Dogs in pain or discomfort are more likely to react aggressively to owners and strangers.

7. Consider Neutering/Spaying: This can reduce dog aggression and prevent unwanted behaviors. It has been shown to enhance the temperament of your pet. The American Kennel Club lists other benefits of “fixing” your animal to include:

• Reducing roaming in both male and female dogs.

• Reduces leg lifting and mounting.

• Reduces the burden of unwanted puppies.

• Spayed females have a reduced incidence of mammary tumors.

• Neutered male dogs have a reduced chance of testicular cancers and prostate disease.

8. Secure Containment: Keep your dog securely contained within your property. Always use a leash when walking your dog in public.

9. Caution with Stray Dogs: Approach strays with caution. Avoid sudden movements and never attempt to touch or feed a stray without professional assistance.

10. Watch For Warning Signs: Be alert to signs that a dog is uncomfortable or feeling threatened. If a dog appears tense or growling, calmly remove yourself or the child from the situation.

Following these proactive measures can create safer environments for people and dogs. Responsible pet ownership and community awareness are key to reducing the incidence of dog bites.