23 Feb 2008 03:21:29 | Lateef Olajide
It is very certain that there is no guarantee that your dog
will never bite someone under any condition which you may not
even predict. However, you can reduce the risk attached to dog
bite. The popular saying is that prevention is better than cure.
Since prevention of dog bites is not the responsiblity of dog
owners alone, here we will be discussing preventive measures the
prospective dog owners, dog owners, parents, and general member
of the public can make instant use of.
Preventive measures applicable to potential dog owners
The first thing you must do before you think of bringing in a
dog to your househood is to first evaluate your environment and
your lifestyle.
Though their is no breed that will not under any condition which
you may not predict, however it is still very important for you
to consult professionals like veterinarian, dog behaviorist and
breeder to determine the breed that will be suitable for you,
your family and most especially that will be suitable for your
environment. Obtainning breed specification will help you alot
in avoiding any possible future trouble.
Prospective dog owner should not buy a dog that is bellow 8
weeks of age. Puppy bellow this age will not have the
opportunity to learn bite inhibition from his litter mate at
all.
Buying dog that is above 4 months is a bit risky to be introduce
to your home as you may not predict the dog behavior. However,
if you are to buy older dog at all make sure that you did not
purchase a do with any history of aggression.
If any of your children exhibit any fear or apprehension of
dogs, make sure you delay bringing in a dog. You should know
earlier if you seek your children's opinion during your
evaluation of your environment. However, if your child is no yet
6 years of age it is adviciable to hold the purchase of large
dog.
Preventive measures for dog owners
According to Human Society of the United States resports spayed
and neutered dogs are three times less like to bite. Thus is is
highly essential for you to spay and neuter you dogs. Doing this
will reduce their frequent aggressive tendency.
As a dog owner it is very important that you socialize your dog.
If you socialize your dog well it will be much likely you will
experience dog bite. Socializing you dog help boost it's
confidence and reduce it's been nervours or frightened under
normal circumstances.
So socialize your dog very well by introducing your dog to your
member of family, other people, and experiences that could
possibly course nervousness and fear biting in future. Do this
and make it feel at ease with people and other dogs.
Dog training will also help you in preventing dog bite. You have
to learn proper training techniques by attending dog training
class. Attending these classes will help you socialize your dog.
Train your dog to respond to some basic comands such as "stay,
"leave it" and "come". Also train you dog to drop his toys on
command . If you don't do this you will have to retrieve it from
his mouth. Thus taking risk of your finger been bitten.
Teach your dog acceptable behaviors by enrolling in an obediece
class. Attending this class you dog will be trained to be
submissive and respect your leadership in the house. Games like
"tug of war", "wresling","siccing the dog on another person"
should not be avoided as it encourages aggression.
For continuation of this article and other interested advice on
dog bite prevention Visit http://www.dog-bite-prevention.com
About Author :
Editor and publisher of Dog Bite Prevention newsletter at
www.dog-bite-prevention.com