SAN ANTONIO – Less than two weeks after a Northeast Bexar County boy was mauled by his family’s dog, trainers are offering advice to prevent future canine attacks.
Dog behaviors that represent hostility toward people, even while playing:
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Growling
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Ears straight back
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Fur raised up
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Stiff posture
Suggestions and facts by professional dog trainers:
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Never leave a dog alone with small children, whether it's a family pet or not.
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Even some of the friendliest, calmest dogs can be triggered to attack violently.
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Seek professional help if dogs display signs of hostility.
Dog bite statistics, according to Dogsbite.org:
In 2017, there were 39 dog bite-related deaths in the United States.
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74 percent by pit bulls
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10 percent by German shepherds
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8 percent by mixed breeds
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5 percent by Labrador retrievers
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5 percent by mastiffs
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5 percent by unknown breeds
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3 percent by one per seven different breeds
For more statistics, click here.
For more information on dogs, click here.