Every year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs.  800,000 people seek medical attention for the bite.

Helping to ensure your dog isn’t part of the problem:

1. Carefully select your puppy from a reputable breeder who takes temperament into account.  (This will help reduce the number of animals placed in shelters and euthanized as well…it’s all connected.)  If you’re adopting, take the pup’s temperament into account.  Bring a professional with you to evaluate the dog’s temperament to determine if it’s suitable for your family.
2. Proper socialization is critical for a puppy.  The time with their mother and siblings is extremely important in the pup’s socialization (a puppy should never be removed from it’s siblings and mom before 8-10 weeks of age), but it doesn’t end there.  The first 4-6 months of their life is a time when they learn what’s “safe” and what’s acceptable behavior.
3. Training your dog.  Simple commands will help them respond to you when difficult situations arise.  Work with a qualified trainer, if necessary.  Small molehills can quickly grow into out-of-control mountains.
4. Proper nutrition can have a dramatic impact on a dog’s behavior.  Studies have shown that a poor diet decreases their ability to comprehend.  They lose focus and become hyper, frustrated, and confused…which can often turn to aggression.
5. Exercise your dog regularly to give them a focused outlet for their energy.
6. Attend our “Preventing Dog Bites” seminar.

Helping to ensure your family doesn’t become a victim:

1. Approach strange dogs cautiously.  Ask the owner if it is okay to pet a dog before you attempt to.  And respect the answer if it’s no.
2. When petting a dog, first come down to their height, put your hand out and let the dog come to you.  Do not pat him on the top of the head.
3. Do not pet a dog that is sleeping or in a crate or behind a fence.
4. Do not allow children to crawl on, pull hair, pinch, pull tails, etc.  Allowing them to do this with your own dog (even if your dog tolerates it) teaches the children it’s okay for all dogs.  And it is not.
5. Do not try to pet or comfort a dog who is frightened or injured.
6. Teach your children to Be A Tree.
7. Attend our “Preventing Dog Bites” seminar.