It's important that children, whether they have their own pets or not, be taught about animals. Part of this includes teaching children why dogs bite and what they can do and shouldn't do if faced with this situation.
There are a variety of reasons why dogs bite. They may do so because they get excited, they get angry, they get surprised or become fearful, or they are reacting to pain or illness. Dogs may get overly excited in reaction to playing children, to the type of movements they make and the noises, things like squeals and screams. In their excitement, they may want to join in, but they may do so in a way that they would with other dogs, using their claws and teeth and generally being overly rough. Because of this, it's important that children play gently and calmly either with or around the dog. When playing with a dog, take some time outs so you both can calm down. Freeze if the dog does get too excited, and then slowly walk away.
A dog may get angry and potentially bite when he's protecting something that he thinks is off-limits to you and you've come too close to. This can be a food or water bowl, toys, a bed, even his owners. Because of this, it's important that you respect a dog's property. Don't go after his food bowls. With strange dogs, don't pet one that's tied up, don't pet one by putting your hand through a fence or car window, and don't go into a yard where there's a dog that you don't know. Dogs may also bite to protect themselves if they're startled or surprised, and thus scared, by sudden or loud noises or quick movements. If you're a stranger to that dog, he can't tell whether you're nice or whether you might hurt him, and he may just act by biting before thinking. If you come upon a dog that you don't know, always ask the owner first for permission before approaching or petting the dog. Do not approach the dog, leave him alone, if the owner isn't available.
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