Dogs are an important part of our lives: they are our great friends, they bring us benefits with their company and we consider them part of the family. So why do dogs bite us?
Children are often taught that they should never approach, much less touch a dog because they attack and bite. This makes people think that dogs bite because they want and that’s not the case. Some even think that only large dogs bite, or that only dogs of aggressive breeds are dangerous. All these beliefs are myths. And in this opportunity we will clarify all the doubts that you may have about why dogs bite.
Just as humans have a language to communicate, so do dogs. The problem occurs when we misinterpret the signs that dogs give us or even expose ourselves to dangerous situations simply because they do not understand their behavior.
Any dog, whether small or large, regardless of whether it is male or female, can get to bite if provoked. Studies in the United States show that dogs of all races bite, including Chihuahua! This does not mean that they are bad, they are simply expressing to us that they are afraid or that they are upset with some situation. They would do the same with another dog, if it scares them or provokes them.
Some of the main reasons why a dog bites are:
- To protect your food: how would you feel if a stranger intends to steal your hamburger?
- Defend your territory: would you be frightened if someone you do not know comes into your house?
- You have pain: would you be angry if someone touches you where it hurts?
- Maternal instinct: The females defend their puppies. – How would your mother act if she considers that you are in danger?
He was not socialized (he did not have adequate prior contact with people and animals): how would a person who as a child never had the opportunity to interact with humans act?
Phobias acquired during early age: what would a person who has a phobia of needles do and will be injected?
As you can see, many of the reasons why a dog reacts aggressively can be avoided.
Here are some recommendations to prevent bites:
Do not bother or frighten a dog, especially when it is eating, with its puppies or toys, when it is behind bars, in a car, asleep or sick.
Stay away if a dog is scared or angry. An angry dog will show the teeth. A frightened dog will put its tail between its legs and try to flee.
Be still when a dog approaches without a leash. If you are standing, stand still like a tree. If you fall to the floor, make a fist, like a stone. Do not make noise and close your eyes. The dog will lose interest in you.
Ask the owner for permission to touch it. Children in the company of dogs should always be supervised. Teach them to approach quietly and carefully, let the dog smell his fist and then caress his back.
If a dog bites you, wash your wound well and go to the nearest health center.
The importance of socialization
Socialization is the act of presenting a wide variety of stimuli to your dog when it is a puppy (especially its first 3 months of life): people and animals of different ages, gender and temperaments, sounds, smells, etc. This is important so that when you grow up you feel comfortable in different situations and do not develop phobias or aggression’s. It will also make it a friendlier puppy.
You have the power in your hands to prevent bites! Be a responsible owner and take good care of your pet. She will compensate you with company and love.
Author Bio:
Selena Richard is a blogger and a guest contributor for Mesheble. She writes variety of topics related to pets, health and fitness. In her leisure time she play tennis.