Spending time around dogs is often enjoyable, but being bit by one can leave you with a range of physical injuries and infections. It can feel tough at times to know when a dog is being playful and when it is being aggressive.
Knowing more about the signs of canine aggression may help you even after a bite.
Barking and making certain noises
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, dogs that feel threatened may try to bark in order to guard their territories and keep the peace.
These barks may not be loud at first, which can lead to confusion if the owner of the dog encourages you to keep playing with their pet or dismisses the idea of any danger. Some of these sounds can also be guttural in nature or include growls.
Muzzle-punching you
A dog that approaches you, hits you quickly with its nose and then retreats could want to signal that they are unhappy with you. Staying aware of the steps that dogs go through before they bite you is key since some of the actions they take may come off as strange at first.
Baring its teeth
When a dog shows you its teeth or snaps its mouth open and closed, it could be a sign of aggression. This reaction could come moments before it chooses to lunge at you and latch on while biting.
Noticing and accounting for what dogs do when they bite humans may help you after or during intense situations.
