Dogs usually bite when they are trained to do so or it could be because they are scared. They may have had bad experience with a certain situation as a puppy and thus develop fear for it. Perhaps your dog were scared by the garbage collector who kicked him when he barked at one as a puppy.

So he will continue to associate garbage collection man as a threat and will bite one or someone who look like one out of fear. Maybe the case is not this serious but the chances that your dog will bite is always there. Fortunately, there are things we can do to lower the chance of this happening.

Contrary to popular beliefs, dogs do not like to be handled like a doll. They don’t really enjoy kissing and hugging all that much like we do. You don’t like licking very much either, do you? Out of most dog bite victims, many are children. It is wise to educate your child about not putting their face close to the dog’s.

As we have talk about earlier, your dog will develop fear out of shocking experiences, so the last thing you want to do is to give him a scare. Do not startle him when he is sleeping or minding his own business. Otherwise, he may even associate you with his bad experience. Announce your arrival by making noises and calling out his name.

It is not unusual when a dog come and sniff you up when you just met. This applies to your guests as well. Think it is ok to pet him? Not yet! For one, you have not build the trust with him. He can’t make up his mind if you are enemy or ‘playmate’ so don’t take your chance!

Dogs have frustrations too and they go through bad days as well. But how do a dog tell you to leave him alone? They can’t and will most probably turn aggressive if provoked. He may be tired or just moody. Do give him space to work things out and he will be fine with proper trainings and care.

Just like raising a child, raise your dog with proper social interaction and healthy playtime. Your dog will behave better and happier and will have less resistance towards children and your friends, making them a friendlier pet to play with.