For dog owners as well as the injured, a biting incident is devastating. For the owner, the result can be a lawsuit, fines, jail time (in some states), or the euthanizing of the dog. The injured may have to endure medical expenses, loss of work, disfigurement, or a lengthy court case. Both, however, can take steps to prevent dog bites, and avoid the consequences that they bring.

Prevention begins before the dog is brought home. Dog owners should thoroughly research the type of dog that they are bringing home before they do so. In today’s world of information, it is easy to find data on any breed. Pick a breed of dog that will fit your lifestyle and environment. Some breeds are great children, others aren’t. Some require more attention than others. Consider your family size and disposition, as well as the size of your home, among other things, when choosing a dog.

At home, be sure to socialize your dog, introducing him to the types of people and environments that he will encounter daily. This way, the dog is less likely to be caught in a situation in which he may feel the need to defend himself. Training the dog also cuts down on bite potential. Proper treatment of your dog is also essential in preventing bites. Dog that are sick or neglected tend to have the dispositions that lead to a biting incident. Owners should also avoid exciting the dog, with rough games that tend to lead to a bite, such as wrestling.

Dog owners are not the only people who should take precautions to prevent dog bites, even if the dog is familiar. Some of these precautions include teaching children not to approach a strange dog without the owner’s permission. This rule also applies to a dog that is known to the children. Adults should always supervise children around the dogs. Adults and children alike should stay away from a feeding, sleeping or dog with puppies, as well as a dog that is sick. All these situations are ones in which a dog will feel potential the need to be defensive—to bite.

Prevention when approached by a strange dog include staying stiff and letting the dog sniff you, staying calm, and curling into a curl into a ball if knocked down.

Dog bites can be prevented with a little education and extra caution. Adults as well as children should take care, even with a familiar dog, to prevent bites.