While out in public, you may approach a dog with the best of intentions. However, some dog owners may not understand or care about the danger their dog could put you in.
Dealing with painful dog bites can happen when this animal shows signs of anger and frustration. Understanding what those signs look like is key to knowing what to do after a bite.
Tense or quiet reactions
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, dogs may not lunge at you immediately when feeling territorial or upset. They may instead stay where they are and growl in a low tone. This attempt to look threatening can escalate to a lunge or bared teeth after the initial warnings.
Quick contact
After hearing louder growling and snarling noises, you may see the dog rush toward you to punch you with its muzzle before retreating. This can confuse people, since it may seem as though it wants to play with you in some circumstances. The dog may also continue to show its teeth while snapping or snarling in your direction.
Intense movements and nipping
When increasingly angry, a dog may rush forward and nip you on the hand or another part of your body. Sometimes these bites do not break the skin but some may leave you with small marks or bruises. Soon after, the same dog may bite multiple times and latch onto you even when you try to shake it off.
Knowing how quickly and intensely a dog bite incident can intensify may help you after suffering from a personal injury.