Preventing Dog bites and attacks

1. There are four main reasons why dogs attack or bite humans:
1. Protecting their owners or their property. Most dogs will instinctively protect their territory. This is usually done by simply barking, though some dogs way bite or attack.
2. Protecting themselves - Dogs can and will protect themselves if they
deem it necessary. Dogs will often instinctively defend themselves from an attack or perceived attack
3. Prey behaviors or herding Behavior.
Dogs have many predatory instincts. The instinct to attack a fleeing animal. The pursuit of prey.
Many breeds have had the herding instinct, strongly bred into them. These dogs will often bite in an attempt to herd someone away from their property or possessions or simply out of playful excitement.. These dogs tend to try and bite the back of legs.

4. Dogs trained to attack
Do not confuse these dogs with properly trained guard dogs or police dogs.
There are some dogs that are trained to attack any and all humans.

What NOT to do around dogs you do not know well.
A strange dog is considered a dog you do not live with, or have not had long term, daily contact with.

Do not touch or go near a strange dog's food dish, bed, toys, or disturb the dog while sleeping .or eating.
Do not enter a barking or growling dog's territory.
Do not put your face near a dogs face
or kiss a dog on the face.
Do not hug or restrain a strange dog.
Do not blow in a dog's face or ears.
Do not lean over top of a strange or fearful dog.
Do not run or move quickly or suddenly. No quick hand movements or raised arms.
Do not raise your voice or talk in an excited high pitched tone.
Do not give direct eye contact, or walk directly towards a strange or shy dog.
Do not pat a dog on the top of the head or reach for the dog's collar.
Do not reach for a client who has a dog on their lap, or by their side.
Do not approach a barking dog.
Do not approach a shy-fearful dog, or a dog that backs away from you.
Do not assume a wagging tail means a friendly dog {A wagging tail means excitement, a dog will wag its tail during prey drive attacks}
Do not pick up a strange dog,
Do not ever touch a clients dog with out first asking permission.
Never correct or punish a strange dog