Petsitting Blog

ANY dog can bite. Whether you’re a pet owner or petsitter, be responsible and educate yourself on how to prevent dog bites. Below, we’ve got some tips for how to reduce your risk of being bitten by a dog (petsitters, you’re “new” to many dogs, so pay attention to that part especially) and how to prevent a dog in your care from biting someone else.

Preventing the dog from biting you

• Let the dog see and sniff you before you pet him.
• Stay away from dogs chained up, in cars or otherwise confined, since they may feel especially threatened and vulnerable.
• Avoid direct eye contact with the dog, since it’s a form of dominance and aggression.
• Don’t disturb a dog that is eating, chewing, drinking or sleeping.
• Be especially careful around older dogs that might have hearing and vision impairments, or additional pains that make them sensitive to touch.

Preventing the dog from biting others

• When walking the dog, keep him on a leash.
• Be cautious and alert when introducing the dog to new situations.
• Always be calm and talk to the dog in a gentle or happy voice (avoid yelling and increasing his tension).
• Play non-aggressive games — like fetch — with the dog.
• Never leave small children unsupervised with the dog.
• Learn the warning signs that a dog may bite. (Below)

Warning signs that a dog may bite

• Growling, snarling, aggressive barking
• Ears up, hair raised, body stiff, tail standing straight
• Fearful, crouched position with the tail between the legs
• Unnatural stillness