Dog Bite Prevention Week
by Dr. Abby Sullivan
“My Dog Would Never!” …Until They Do.
A Friendly Reminder for Dog Bite Prevention Week
We hear it all the time: “My dog would never bite!” And we totally get it—your pup is a beloved member of your family, a couch snuggler, treat connoisseur, and all-around good dog. But here’s the thing: any dog can bite. Yes, even yours. And it doesn’t mean they’re a “bad dog”—it just means they’re a dog.
Biting is a dog’s natural form of defense, especially when they feel scared, threatened, or cornered. And while some nips may seem minor, dog bites can cause serious soft tissue injuries and dangerous infections. That’s why bite prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and it starts with understanding a few key things:
Supervise Like a Lifeguard
Kids and dogs can be the best of friends…until they’re not. Never leave small children unattended with dogs, no matter how sweet the pup. Teach kids to respect a dog’s space (especially when they’re eating, sleeping, or just trying to enjoy their fifth nap of the day).
Muzzles: Not Just for “Bad Dogs”
We love a good basket muzzle. Really. There’s so much stigma around muzzles, but the truth is—they’re just safety equipment, like seatbelts or bike helmets. When used properly, they can prevent traumatic situations while still allowing your dog to pant, drink, and enjoy their walk in peace. Bonus: dogs trained to wear them often get tons of treats. Win-win!
Know Thy Dog
No one knows your dog better than you do. If your pup is anxious around new people, dogs, or loud environments, it’s okay to say “no thanks” to a trip to the dog park or a neighborhood festival. Set your dog up for success by avoiding situations that stress them out.
What About at the Vet?
We totally understand—vet visits can be a little (okay, a lot) scary for some pets. That’s why we use low-stress handling techniques, give lots of positive reinforcement, and when needed, use anxiety-reducing medications to help your dog feel more at ease. And if your pup is a bit nippy? That’s okay! We’d rather use a muzzle than risk anyone getting hurt. Safety first for everyone involved.
So this week—and every week—let’s be proactive. Respect your dog’s boundaries, train for comfort, and don’t be afraid to use the tools that keep everyone safe. Because a little prevention goes a long way… and your dog will thank you for it.
