6 Signs a Dog is Going to Bite
Dog walkers need to be experts at reading dog body language so they can safely respond to signs of stress and discomfort. Failure to do so can result in dog bites. Here are some signs that a dog is uncomfortable and may bite.
#1 Growling or Barking
This one is pretty obvious, a dog that's growling, barking. and/or baring teeth is a good indication that a dog feels threatened and my bite if you don't proceed with caution.
#2 Stiff Body Language
Dogs that are relaxed have loose, fluid body language. A dog that is stiff or stops and "freezes" is not comfortable.
#3 Wide Open or Whale Eye
Wide open eyes or eyes where you can see the whites of the eyes, known as "whale eye" indicates fear and possible aggression.
#4 Fearful Body Language
Tail tucked, cowering, trembling, ears pinned back, running away, hiding, averting the eyes and lip licking are all indications a dog is afraid and may bite.
#5 Stiff Tail Wag
A stiff tail wag where the tail is straight up and wagging tightly back and forth is a warning sign that a dog may bite. A calm dog will have a loose, floppy tail wag.
#6 Hackles Up, Offensive Stance
If a dog is standing stiffly, has hackles up (fur standing on end), is leaning forward, making eye contact and/or standing up high on his feet to appear taller, proceed with extreme caution. The dog on the right in the above photo is making direct eye contact and standing tall with stiff, still body language.
Look at the Whole Picture
A dog may exhibit one or more of these behaviors yet not be afraid or aggressive, so it's important to look at the entire body and context. For example, a dog may have hackles up yet be engaged in appropriate playful behavior, and is just excited. Fun fact- hackles are involuntary, like goosebumps, so dogs have no control over them popping up. Hackles indicate the dog is excited, stimulated or fearful. They are commonly seen between the shoulder blades or at the base of the tail.
Proceed With Caution
Don't force a dog to do what you want. Never physically manipulate a dog (push his behind down into a sit, push or pull when the dog doesn't want to go, grab the dog and so on), this is a great way to get bitten. Be hands off. Watch for the signs above, back off and give the dog space if you see them.
Crouch down far enough from the dog that he appears to be relaxed, and encourage the dog to approach you with happy talk, treats or toys. Don't make eye contact (this can be a threat), turn away from the dog and try some calming signals, like yawning.
If you aren't able to get the dog for the walk, don't force the issue. It's better to call the owner and let them know the situation than to get bitten, and push a dog to bite.
Try having the owner present for the next walk (or several), this often helps.
