Warning signs

Some dog behaviors may signal that a dog is aggressive, afraid, or protecting his or her territory. These are 3 situations in which a dog is more likely to bite. Watch for these signs:

• Growling, snarling, or barking

• Crouching with the head low or the tail between the legs

• Fur that’s standing up, erect ears, a stiff body, and a high tail

• Obvious injury or pain

Preventing bites

If a strange dog comes near you, stand still, keep your hands down, and avoid eye contact. If you’re knocked down, curl into a ball and cover your head, neck, and face. Remember these tips, too:

• Ask before petting a dog you don’t know.

• Never leave a child alone with a dog — even the family pet.

• Avoid dogs that are cornered, chained, in a car or behind a fence.

• Don’t play rough with any dog.

• Don’t break up a dog fight.

• Don’t surprise older dogs. A dog that’s deaf or blind may bite.

• Keep your face away from a dog’s head.

• Don’t disturb a dog that’s sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.

Self-care after a bite

Rinse the bite with running water. This may help clean away bacteria. Then, wash the wound with warm, soapy water for at least 5 minutes. Cover it with a clean bandage, and call your healthcare provider. If the bite is bleeding heavily, apply direct pressure and raise it above heart level until the bleeding stops.

Your area may have a law about reporting dog bites. If so, report the bite to the local health department and animal-control agency. And try to find the dog’s owner. You need to know if the dog's rabies vaccine is current.