Most dog bites happen because people miss the warning signs. Dogs communicate clearly with their bodies — if we learn to read them, we can keep both people and dogs safe.
A relaxed dog
Soft eyes, loose body, mouth slightly open, tail at a natural height wagging loosely, ears in a neutral position.
A worried or stressed dog
- Licking lips, yawning when not tired
- Showing the whites of the eyes ("whale eye")
- Ears pinned back, tail low or tucked
- Turning the head away, freezing, lifting a paw
A dog asking for space — stop and back away
- Stiff body, staring, raised hair along the back
- Growling, lifting the lip, showing teeth
- Snapping in the air
Never punish a growlA growl is a warning. Dogs punished for growling may learn to bite without warning.
Approaching an unknown or street dog
- Let the dog come to youStand sideways, look away, and let it sniff your closed hand if it chooses to.
- Move slowly and talk calmlyNo sudden movements, no hugging, no reaching over its head.
- Never runIf a dog approaches aggressively, stand still like a tree, arms by your sides, and avoid eye contact until it loses interest.
- Teach childrenNever disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping or with puppies.