Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that each year, an estimated 4.5 million Americans are the victims of dog bites. The Philadelphia Dog Bite Attorneys with Lundy Law point out these numbers leave many citizens wondering how they can recognize a dangerous dog in order to prevent bites from occurring.

An article from My FOX Philly states the first place to look to identify an aggressive dog is not at the animal, but instead toward the owner. Factors such as an owner’s age, the amount of training they have given the animal, and where they received the animal have each been proven to influence a canine’s aggressiveness.

Researchers also stated the situation a dog is in can have a significant influence on their behavior. If they are on their own “turf” or “territory” the animal may tend to be more aggressive than they would be in public, or vice versa.

So, how can you tell when an animal needs its space? Experts agree the answer is in the animal’s body language. A dog should be left alone if it engages in specific behaviors, such as:

• Direct stare
• Stiff posture
• Ears pinned back
• Teeth showing
• Growling
• Barking
• Raised hair on the back

The Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers with Lundy Law are aware of the dangers an aggressive dog can pose and hope these tips help keep you and your family safe in the future!