One of the most common reasons that a dog bites people is because of fear-based aggression. This occurs when a dog is scared, feels threatened in a situation, and a person doesn’t realize or acknowledge how scared the dog is. When dogs are extremely scared, and a person does not leave them alone, they may feel trapped and lash out with aggression (biting).

With careful observation, a person can train themselves to understand what a dog is trying to communicate- if a dog is feeling safe, happy, or scared. By knowing what to look for in a dog, in their eyes, ears, facial expression, tail movement, vocalization and posture, we can reduce unsafe interactions and the likelihood of a dog biting. Click here to read about your dog’s body language, and here to read about your dog’s emotions.

Here are some best practices that can help to put a dog at ease:

When you are approaching a dog, move slowly.
Speak quietly and softly, and allow them to approach you (if possible).
Don’t stare directly at the dog (specifically at their eyes) and don’t lean over a dog- crouch down to the dog, or stand up straight.
If they are interested in sniffing you, you can gently offer a hand.
If they seem happy, you can try to pet them on the shoulders or the back (Don’t go straight for the head).
Pay attention to changes in the dog’s behaviour: they will let you know if they don’t want to continue interacting. Respect what they want- don’t chase after them if they don’t want to interact.