Under the right condition, any dog can bite!

It is important to recognize a dog's 'body language'.
Body language is the way a dog's body looks and acts.
Understanding body language will help protect you.
Below are examples of different body language.

Learn to be a Mind-Reader!

Some of these dogs look friendly, but all of these dogs can bite.
Take some time to learn some body language and you will
understand more of what the dog is thinking.

This dog is intimidated. He feels threatened and cornered. Notice his tail. Don't approach this dog.

This dog is worried. He feels concerned about what will happen next. Don't approach this dog.

This dog is aggressive. He is ready to bite.  Don't approach this dog.

This dog is dominant. He thinks he is the boss and in charge. Don't approach this dog.

This dog is afraid. How do you know? Look at his tail. He will do anything to protect himself. He will not feel better if you try to pet him. Don't approach this dog.

Take a good look at the dogs above and remember that if you
get too close, they might bite. Be sure to notice their tails
and the expressions on their faces.
Which dog do you think is the most dangerous?
The dog that is afraid is the most dangerous. Can you think why?

Another thing... Even happy and playful dogs can bite. Play bites hurt as much as real bites. If the dog does not belong to you, please respect his space and leave him alone.

 

Don't leave babies alone with dogs. Although your dog may be friendly, don't ever leave a baby alone with him. If you have a younger brother or sister, please stay in the room if your parents are not there.

 

Extra Note: Leave wild animals alone! They look cute and cuddly, but they may bite if you touch them.

 

 

Excellent Safety Video for Kids!

Dogs, Cats, and Kids (grades 4 to 8), and Dogs, Cats & BIG Kids” (grades 4 to 8) available in VHS or DVD “Should be required viewing for all families with young children – whether they own a pet or not.” Steve Dale, Chicago Tribune Dogs, Cats & Kids is recommended by Parents Choice, the Humane Society of the United States, leading pediatricians, educators, and pet care professionals. It was tested and proven in a study at Johns Hopkins University and a pilot program with more than 10,000 children (see “Results.”) In just 27 entertaining minutes, this fun video shows children how animals think and behave, and how they should behave around animals. “An excellent primer that may help a child avert injury.” The Seattle Times

 

A Dog Called Kitty, by Bill Wallace, New York: Holiday House 1992 reprint of 1980 book. Ricky wants to help a starving stray dog that has been wandering around his yard, but after having been bitten by a dog when he was younger, he is frightened to befriend the lonely puppy.This great story is good for ages 9-12. Kids love this book!

 

Go to other safety topics:

1. Don't bother dogs. (Click for lots more!)

3. Leave stray dogs alone. (Click for lots more!)

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How to Keep Safe

Keeping Safe

Don't Bother Dogs

Any Dog Can Bite

Leave Stray Dogs Alone

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