Socialize your dog from a young age to help them feel comfortable and confident around people, other dogs, and various situations. Enroll your dog in obedience training classes to learn basic commands and appropriate behavior.
Always supervise interactions between dogs and children, especially young children who may not understand how to properly interact with dogs. Teach children to approach dogs calmly and respectfully, and never leave them unsupervised with a dog.
Learn to recognize signs of stress or discomfort in dogs, such as stiff body posture, growling, baring teeth, raised hackles, and avoidance behaviors. If a dog exhibits these signs, give them space and avoid approaching or interacting with them.
Respect a dog's personal space and boundaries. Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs without permission from their owner, and always ask before petting or interacting with a dog you don't know. Allow dogs to initiate contact if they are interested in interacting with you.
Teach puppies and dogs bite inhibition by gently discouraging nipping or mouthing behaviors and rewarding gentle play. Provide appropriate chew toys and redirect biting behavior to prevent unintentional harm.
Spaying or neutering your dog can help reduce aggression and territorial behavior, decreasing the likelihood of bites and other behavioral issues. Talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate timing for spaying or neutering your dog.
Keep your dog securely restrained on a leash or within a fenced yard when in public or around unfamiliar people or animals. Use a leash with a secure collar or harness to prevent your dog from escaping or becoming agitated.
Educate yourself and others about responsible dog ownership and bite prevention. Teach friends, family members, and children about how to interact safely with dogs, including the importance of asking permission before petting, approaching dogs calmly, and avoiding behaviors that may provoke fear or aggression.