Tip for February 15: Don't Get Bitten If Your Dog Bites Someone

The incidence of dog bites is on the rise. And in my opinion, that is usually not the fault of the dogs. Dogs need training, reinforcement, and reminders. Dogs need to know the owner is the alpha dog. Dogs need to follow commands and should never run loose (not even in an enclosed yard) if the owner does not have control of the dog's behavior.

I have observed occasions when people have instigated the problem. When someone is walking their dog on lead, I've seen people walk right up to the dog, crouch down and start petting the dog, or trying to. Is this dog friendly? Will this dog feel you are constricting his space, trying to dominate? Never approach a dog until you have asked the owner if it is okay. And if the owner says it's not a good idea, don't argue. They know their dog. Don't ask for trouble.

When approaching someone's yard, if their dog is running and yelping, stop. Call the owner on your cell phone, let them know you have arrived, and find out if the dog will accept you if you open the gate. Better safe than sorry.

And if another dog steals the treat that belongs to your dog, don't try to get it back. Your dog will survive and will forget rather quickly. You, on the other hand, may find out the hard way that the dog has no intention of giving up the treat.

Finally, a bit of legal advice. Check with your insurance agent and be sure that you are covered if your dog should happen to bite a person or even another pet while in your home or away from home.

Tip for February 15: Don't Get Bitten If Your Dog Bites Someone

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