Signs and Warnings That Could Predict a Potential Dog Bite

I believe the vast majority of all dog bites could be prevented. They don't 'just happen.' There is nearly always a complex array of warning signs that the dog displays, prior to the bite. If you are a keen observer of the dog's outward signals, and you know what to look for, you can avoid teeth trouble before it begins.

So...what to look for? The key is noticing when the calm dog begins to change, and starts giving off warning signals. Tense dogs bite; calm dogs do not.

DOG IS CALM
You'll see a dog that is loose, not stiff. A friendly dog usually has soft, relaxed ears and tail. She will approach with a cocked head, curving her body this way and that, sometimes even melting into the ground. Her eye is soft, her mouth is quiet, and she has an interested expression. These are all ways that a dog expresses her desire to interact with you.

DOG IS GETTING UNCOMFORTABLE
A good indicator that something is changing is to watch for avoiding behavior. She turns away her eyes or head, or tries to wriggle out of your grasp. She might sit, or lie down at some distance away from you. Yawning and the tongue flickering in and out quickly are all signs that a dog is becoming uneasy. These are all outward signs that the dog expects you to read - she wants you to back off whatever you are doing.

DOG IS TENSE
Because you are not responding to her changing signals, she will now begin to warn you. This body language is far more subtle than the obvious growling or baring of teeth, so people often miss it. She will freeze her entire body - even for a split second - when you touch her. Her pupils may dilate, and even if her head is facing away from you, you may see the whites of her eyes as she rolls them back sideways to look at you. Her tail is very stiff, even if it is moving. She is clearly no longer enjoying your interaction any longer. Get outta there.

Look through the photo gallery and see if you can detect loose, changing, and tense body language. And start looking for these things in your own dog. It will make for a better partnership, and a closer - and safer - relationship for both of you.