A Q and A on Dog Bite Prevention
Dog Bite Prevention: straight answers to the questions people actually ask, with the figures behind them.
Teaching children and adults how to behave around dogs, and what to do if a bite happens.
Key takeaways
- Dog bites a year: about 4.5 million in the US
- Most at risk: children, often by a dog they know
- Most useful single change: Always supervise young children with any dog.
- Commonest mistake: Leaving a baby or young child alone with a dog.
- See a doctor if any of the signs under "When to speak to a doctor" below apply to you.
What is Dog Bite Prevention?
Teaching children and adults how to behave around dogs, and what to do if a bite happens.
Why does it matter?
About 4.5 million people in the US are bitten by dogs each year, and children are the most likely to be bitten and seriously hurt.
Dog bites a year for Dog Bite Prevention?
About 4.5 million in the US.
Most at risk for Dog Bite Prevention?
Children, often by a dog they know.
Warning signs for Dog Bite Prevention?
Stiff body, raised fur, growling, showing teeth, or a tucked tail.
If approached by an unfamiliar dog for Dog Bite Prevention?
Stand still, avoid eye contact and stay calm.
What is the single most useful thing to do?
Always supervise young children with any dog.
What is the most common mistake?
Leaving a baby or young child alone with a dog.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor for any bite that is deep, will not stop bleeding, is on the face or hands, shows redness, swelling or warmth, or comes from a dog whose vaccination status is unknown; ask about tetanus and rabies. Call 911 for severe bleeding or a serious attack.
More questions, answered
Are some dog breeds more likely to bite?
Any dog can bite. A dog's behavior depends on many factors, including its training, socialization, health and the situation. Judging risk by breed alone is not reliable.
Should I report a dog bite?
In many areas, dog bites must be reported to local animal control or the health department, especially for rabies monitoring. Your doctor can tell you about local requirements.
Do all dog bites need antibiotics?
Not all. Your doctor will consider the depth and location of the bite and your health. Bites to the hands, face, near joints or deep punctures are more likely to need antibiotics.
How can I tell if my dog is uncomfortable around children?
Watch for signs such as turning away, lip licking, yawning, showing the whites of the eyes, freezing, growling or moving away. Give the dog space and separate it from children if you see these signs.
Can a dog bite cause rabies?
It is rare from pet dogs in the US because of vaccination, but it is possible with unvaccinated or unknown animals. Contact your doctor or health department right away after a bite from an unknown dog.
What should I teach my child to do if a dog approaches?
Teach them to stand still like a tree, with hands at their sides, and avoid staring at the dog. Most dogs will lose interest and walk away. Running or screaming can trigger the dog to chase.
Related topics
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- Listeria in Pregnancy: What Published Guidance Supports (Food Safety)
- Foods to Avoid in Pregnancy: What the Evidence Actually Says (Pregnancy and Postpartum)
- Wound Care: What the Evidence Actually Says (Skin Health)
Where to go next
- Dog Bite Prevention for Beginners: Where to Start
- The Short Guide to Dog Bite Prevention
- Dog Bite Prevention — the reference entry
- Injury Prevention: The Complete Guide
- Safe Sleep for Infants: Sorting the Evidence From the Noise
- Car Seats and Seat Belts: Sorting the Evidence From the Noise
When to speak to a doctor
See a doctor for any bite that is deep, will not stop bleeding, is on the face or hands, shows redness, swelling or warmth, or comes from a dog whose vaccination status is unknown; ask about tetanus and rabies. Call 911 for severe bleeding or a serious attack.
Where this comes from
- CDC — Preventing Dog Bites
- American Academy of Pediatrics — Dog Bites: Prevention and Treatment
How this page was put together
Every figure, recommendation and warning above is taken from the guidance named in Where this comes from. Nothing on this page is inferred, summarized or generalized beyond what those bodies publish: where they give a number, it is their number, and where they are silent, so are we. Pages are rebuilt whenever the underlying record changes. Sign-off by a named clinician, where it has happened, is shown at the top of the page along with the date.
Medical disclaimer
This article is general information, not medical advice. It cannot account for your own history, medication or circumstances. Always speak to your doctor, pharmacist or another qualified health professional before making changes that affect your treatment, and never delay seeking medical advice because of something you have read here. In an emergency, call 911.
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