When Dogs Might Bite 

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- When they are protecting their territory, food, toys, family, or pups

- When they get excited, even in play

- When they don't know you

- When their "chase response" is triggered

- When they have been bred and/or trained to be aggressive

- When they are in pain or irritated

How to Tell When A Dog May Bite

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- The dog may stare at you

- The dog may hold his/her tail stiff and up in the air, and may wag it very fast

- The dog may growl, snarl, show teeth, or bark

What to Do If You're Threatened By A Dog

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- Be aware of where the dog is.   Don't turn your back on him or her, but don't star the dog in the eyes either.

- If the dog comes up to you, don't resist.  In most cases, the dog will go away upon stiffing you and releasing you aren't a threat.

- Try to stay until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until he or she is out of sight. 

- If a dog does attach suddenly, "feed" him or her your jacket, purse, bike, or anything that will give the dog something to bite besides you.

- If you fall or are knocked down, curl into a ball with your arms and hands over your head and neck.   Try not to scream or roll around.

What to Do If You Are Bitten 

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- Go to the hospital for treatment.

- Tell the police officer or animal control officer as much about the dog as you can -- what he or she looked like, if you've seen the dog before, etc.   It's important for them to try to find the dog.

Things to Remember

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- Never enter a dog's territory (yard, home, car).   If he/she growls at you, back up slowly and wait for an adult to help.

- Never bother a dog when he/she is eating, even if the dog belongs to you.