Many dog bites happen when a person goes up to greet a dog. Knowing these ten things could greatly reduce the risk of getting bitten next time you approach a dog.
#1 – Is He Friendly?
Seems like an obvious question, BUT many people go solely based off of how the dog looks to them. Look friendly, must be friendly. However the dog may look friendly until you are close enough that it’s too late or you may be misreading his body signals. Best to ask the owner first.
#2 – A Wagging Tail is NOT Always Happy
This is an old “wive’s tale” that is unfortunately alive and well. However, agitated, aggressive and “alert” dogs may also wag their tail. The best advice is to not use that tail as a sure-fire “friendly or not” sign.
#3 – Avoid the Head
Something that seems to be hard-wired into our DNA as humans is to immediately pet the dog’s head. Who knows why, maybe because those soft brown eyes are so beautiful. But a lot of dogs do not like their head petted and going for the head means bringing your hand right to the dog’s mouth, not a good idea.
#4 – Approach from the Side
Instead of going toward the head, approach the dog from the side and pet their neck or behind the ear (usually a sweet spot for most dogs). Again, do this only after the owner has told you the dog is friendly.
#5 – Watch for Stress Signs
Regardless of what the owner tells you, watch for signs of stress as you approach. If the dog looks uncomfortable, do not continue to approach. Signs can include tucked or elevated tail, whites of eyes showing, ears laid back, excessive panting, yawning, pilo erection (hair along spine and neck standing up) and trying to get away from you.
#6 – Don’t Stare
Another human fault, most of us want to make direct eye contact and stare at a dog – especially if they have a cute face, unusual markings or blue eyes. However, this can make a dog extremely uncomfortable. It’s best to avoid eye contact.
#7 – Is He Sensitive?
Even a friendly dog may have places he does not like to be touched, or that are painful. Ask the owner where you should pet their dog. Who knows, he may be that one dog that only wants his head scratched.
#8 – Let Her Come to You
Rather than run up to a dog and get right in their space, it’s better to go about half way, from the side, and then stop and wait to see if the dog comes to you. If not, don’t push. She may not feel like greeting today. You have days like that too and respecting her feelings may save you from being bitten.
#9 – Don’t Tower Over Her
When you go up to a dog, do not lean your body over them. This is terrifying for tiny dogs and uncomfortable for larger dogs. In addition, it puts your face in the perfect place should the dog chose to lunge and bite.
#10 – How Long Have They Owned Him?
This may seem like a strange question but think about it. If they just adopted this dog, then they aren’t going to know him that well. Meaning, they may not know exactly where he likes to be petted, if he is okay with strangers (men, children, other dogs). In this case, you may want to pass on a greeting.
