What Are the Most Common Reasons Why Dogs Bite People?

There is a saying that dogs are a man’s best friend. While it would be hard to disagree with this statement given the love, compassion, and loyalty that dogs show to their families, there is also a chance that dogs might bite people. Dog bites can do serious damage and it is important for everyone to seek medical care as quickly as possible for any bite wound. Dog bites can cause serious injuries that include scarring, disfigurement, abrasions, sprains and strains, nerve damage, lacerations, puncture wounds, lost digits, tissue loss, cuts and gashes, infections such as rabies, emotional distress, social embarrassment from scarring, fractured bones, crush injuries, and psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For all of these reasons, it is critical for everyone to know why dogs might bite someone.

One of the most common reasons why dogs bite people is that they feel scared. Think about the thoughts that race through one’s mind when they see an unfamiliar dog on the street. Is that dog going to attack? Should I pet the dog? Does the dog have rabies? Dogs go through similar states when they see someone or something that is unfamiliar to them. Therefore dogs often bite someone because they are scared or startled. Therefore, anytime someone is approaching a dog, it is critical to do so safely and slowly. Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.

Second, dogs often bite people because they are protecting someone or something. For example, dogs might be trying to protect their puppies. Dogs often bite in an effort to protect their food as well, whether they are eating something on the street or food out of their bowls. Finally, many dogs have a favorite toy as well. If they feel like that toy is threatened, they might also bite to protect that toy as well. Just as people protect what is valuable to them, dogs do the same thing.

Finally, some dogs nip or bite because they are playing. Many dogs, particularly puppies, bite because they feel like they are playing. They do not realize that their bites can actually hurt someone. Even though puppies are playing, even small bites can be dangerous for people, particularly young children who might not know any better.

For all of these reasons, people need to exercise caution when they are approaching a dog. Furthermore, dog owners need to make sure they keep their dogs on a leash when they are not on their own property. Even small dog bites can lead to serious complications. Finally, anyone who has been bitten by a dog must make sure they seek medical care as quickly as possible.