Reading a newspaper or watching the news one will realize how common a Los Angeles dog bite is. In fact, every year in the United States there are over 4.5 million people bitten by dogs. One in five attacks by a dog will require medical attention.

All breeds are capable of biting. The important thing to know about dogs is they typically show signs before attacking. If these actions and behaviors are understood by others, some bites may be prevented.

Four common signs a dog may show before biting are:

  • Growling or Snapping – One of the most obvious signs that a dog may be ready to bite is growling or snapping. Dogs growl or snap to let you know they are unhappy, uncomfortable, or feel threatened.
  • Wagging Tail – Many believe that a dog only wags his tail when he is happy. This is not true. A dog that is happy generally wags its tail with the whole body involved, whereas a dog who is about to bite is usually fairly rigid, and his tail will be pointed high and moving more quickly back and forth.
  • Raised Fur – When a dog is in a scared or aggressive state the fur on the back of the neck to the tail will stand up. Some dogs’ hair will only stand up on the back of the neck and shoulders.
  • Stiff Body – A happy, comfortable dog will have a relaxed posture with his ears low and wagging his tail with his whole body involved. The opposite is true for a dog that is unhappy and aggressive. His whole body may be stiff, and his ears and tail raised high.

 

Even after understanding these signs, it may be impossible to avoid the attack. And this does not mean that it is your fault. If you have been bitten by a dog it is important to seek legal options. Contact an experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney at Steinberg today. Call 800-989-6385 to schedule a free consultation.

Peter Steinberg
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Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney Since 1982