There are many warning signs that you can look out for to determine if a dog is capable of acting out of line and biting someone. This may be your own dog biting another person, or someone else’s dog potentially biting yourself or a family member. In any case, these are important warning signs to keep in mind so that people interacting with the dog are kept safe and out of harm’s way. The Law Offices of Howard Kornberg have been working with cases relating to dog bites in Long Beach for years, ensuring capability in handling cases regarding the matter.
Know the Dog’s Background
To better understand the probability of a dog biting someone, it is first important to review the background of a pet. Did it come from California? Who were its previous owners? Has a veterinarian been consulted regarding the viability of owning this pet? These are all important questions to consider as dogs of all breeds can have different backgrounds. While one dog may have grown up wandering the streets, another may have come from the litter of a loving family. Ultimately, the dog’s upbringing can have a big impact on its behavior later in life.
Determine its Level of Socialization
An additional question to ask oneself concerns socialization. Some puppies seldomly see or interact with a wide range of people or other animals. This can potentially lead to more aggressive or defensive behavior from the animal as it is exposed to new environments filled with unknown people. In addition, the dog should never be placed in a situation that is overly uncomfortable or threatening. By ensuring a dog is properly socialized and gradually exposing it to new people and experiences, one can reduce the chances of the dog biting another person.
How Obedient Is the Dog to its Owner?
Training a dog is another important step in ensuring safety for others. When a dog is trained, it generally understands that a dynamic of authority exists between itself and its owner. Simple tricks such as sitting, laying down, or coming to the owner can lead to more obedient dogs. Additionally, consider using a leash in any and all circumstances that involve other people, even within your own home. By following these steps, you will be culminating in a relationship between the dog and other people that is conducive to safe and friendly behavior.
Health and Wellbeing of the Pup
Health is another important factor when keeping people safe from a dog’s bite. The dog should be vaccinated according to California standards and recommendations as suggested by your veterinarian. Consistent visits and check-ups should also be of priority when one owns a dog. Extra visits may also be of priority in the case that a change in behavior is noticed in the dog.
Your Southern California Dog Bite Legal Team
There are many reasons to be wary of a dog bite for both owners and passersby. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, meaning the need to look out for overly-aggressive dogs is as high as ever. Reach out to one of our Long Beach dog bite attorneys as soon as possible by calling 310-997-0904 or by clicking here to learn about your options after someone you know has been bitten by a dog.