Preventing Dog Bites: A Guide to Why Dogs Attack

When asked what a dangerous dog was, most UK citizens answered that it was one banned by the illegal dogs act, such as the pit-bull terrier. This is a myth. When asked where an attack was likely to happen, most people answered it was in the street, particularly in ‘bad’ neighbourhoods. This is another myth.

Most dog attacks are made by a legal breed of dog, usually a family pet. 77% of attacks happen in the home and over 50% involve the dog attacking their own family. The message from animal trainers is clear: any dog can be dangerous. Don’t be fooled by the toilet roll adverts, a cute Labrador puppy can do as much harm to a baby as a Rottweiler.

Dogs are pack animals, programmed to strive for superior status. In the case of a domestic dog, the human family become the pack, with whom it must compete for power. Most dogs attack because their family don’t understand the ‘pack mentality’ of the animal. Sometimes they misinterpret the dog’s power seeking behaviour, such as climbing on beds, eating from the table and growling at the postman, as ‘cute’. That is, until the day the dog snaps.

Despite sensational newspaper headlines, dangerous dogs are not psychopaths or ‘evil’. Dogs don’t have a moral code, or the ability to have complex reasoning. Over 95% of dog attacks are for predictable reasons, and are part of an escalating pattern of aggression. By understanding how a dog’s mind works, and learning to look out for warning signs, it is possible to prevent the cycle of aggression before they result in a vicious attack. Reasons Why a Dog Attacks

Power.

If a dog growls when you move a favourite toy, food bowl, or refuses to obey direct commands these are dominant behaviours, aiming to challenge your authority. If you cave in to your dog by giving back the toy, or letting them ignore you, the dog believes it has ‘won’ and has superior status.
When this happens repeatedly, the dog can become more pushy. At this stage, an attack is likely, if not inevitable. To prevent the cycle escalating, stand up to your dog in a firm, none threatening way, and do not accept no for an answer. Dogs are programmed to submit to humans, so a young dog should respond with little problems. Once aggressive behaviours have begun, they are much harder to reverse. If your dog regularly displays these tendencies, seek help from a professional dog trainer.

Fear

Most dogs attack when they are frightened, in order to defend themselves. Their bites can seem ‘out of the blue’ to human victims, because in most instances, they weren’t attacking the dog at all. Sudden movements like the raising of a hand can be terrifying to a dog, especially those who have experienced abuse, and associate these movements with a violent attack. With dogs you don’t know, be gentle, none threatening and slow moving. Never make a sudden movement towards its head, as it could spook the dog, and lead to a bite.

Illness and Pain.

Like humans, dogs get groggy and irritable when they are ill. Treat them kindly, and don’t disturb their rest, or expose them to stressful, noisy situations. Instead, give them space and peace. During these times, ensure all children are kept away from the dog. Their normal temperament will return as soon as their illness, or source of pain has healed. For long term, chronic health problems, speak to your vet for advice.