What causes a dog to bite?

  • Dog bites can occur when dogs try to defend themselves, their family, or their property. 
  • Startling a dog or approaching a dog from behind. Never abruptly wake a sleeping dog
  • Running away from a dog can provoke a dog to chase you and possibly bite. 
  • Dogs placed in fearful situations may bite anyone who approaches them. This could be abusive situation, loud noises, another animal, or even a crowded place. 
  • Injury and illness also can lead to dog bites. Dogs that are not feeling well or are experiencing pain may not want to be bothered or touched and will bite to let you know. Remember dogs can't tell us when they are under the weather. 
  • Removing toys, food, or any other objects that a dog may be actively enjoying could result in a bite. 

Here are some tips to help prevent and avoid your dog from biting...

  • Take time to learn your dogs' behaviors and what triggers them. What makes them aggressive, anxious, fearful, or over-stimulated. Learn to read your dog's body language. Fur standing up, straight tails, baring teething, barking, and growling could all indicate your dog feels threatened and is behaving aggressively.  Lowering their head, avoiding eye contact, turning away, and tucking their tails could indicate they are stressed, scared, or anxious. 
  • Always ask permission before petting someone else's dog. If the owner agrees, allow the dog to sniff you first before petting them and assess the dog's reaction to you. 
  • If a stray dog approaches you stay calm, and still. Do not run away from the dog or run at the dog. 
  • Never leave children unattended with dogs. Children can sometimes be rough with pets provoking them to bite. 
  • Always keep your dog leashed and secured when out. This is for their safety as well as everyone else. 
  • If you notice your dog guarding areas or items around your home seek out help from a behavioral trainer. 
  • If your dog's behavior or eating habits have changed suddenly contact your vet. 
  • Keep your dog licensed and up to date on rabies vaccinations. 

What happens when a dog bites someone?

When someone is bitten by a domestic animal in New Jersey the animal control officer in that area will be notified by the local board of health. The animal control officer will investigate the matter, obtain vaccination records if available, and place the animal in a ten-day quarantine for a rabies observation period. Both the owner and the victim will receive copies of the animal bite report and quarantine order. Local ordinances will be enforced; and other state statues may apply depending on the circumstances and severity of the situation. Dog bites are handled on a case-to-case basis.