Since pets are often extensions of our most immediate family, pet owners tend to forget that their little bundles of joy are by nature, animals, and animal instinct tell us canines bite if they feel that they’re attacked or when a threat is imminent. That is why no matter how well-trained you think your pet may be, it is important to prepare yourself with the right information so as not to upset your pet and create trouble in your home.

Now, why do dogs bite? This is the first question you need to answer.

There are actually plenty of reasons why dogs bite. It can be that that they’re trying to protect an object that they claim to be theirs—even food, a toy, that small corner they frequent every day, or their human master. Whenever they feel that their possession will be taken away from them, they want to mark their territory, and hence the destructive behaviour.

Another possible reason is unfamiliarity, either with people, places, or situations. When any of your pets is introduced to new experiences where there are strangers around them, they may react by biting to exhibit their alarm. So it is important for you to enroll your puppies in dog training 101 for them to learn socialisation early on. This way they will become at ease within new surroundings and become more-friendly towards human beings and other dogs as well.

A dog that has just given birth is also at risk of being aggressive as she feels the need to protect her puppies from harm; her motherly instinct is heightened during this time. That is why it is vital that you do not touch the youngsters nor let your kids play with them. Make the head of the pack feel safe first and then slowly make it feel that you are not an enemy.

Any dog that experiences an injury or suffering from a disorder can resort to biting to show that it is in pain. So when all of the sudden, your supposedly extra friendly pooch is acting combative, look into the possibility of discomfort or physical suffering. Better yet, have it examined by a veterinarian right away.

By studying potential reasons why your pet gets aggressive, you are able to protect yourself as well as your family from a traumatic experience that sometimes results in a costly dog bite treatment. That is why it is essential to educate your family, especially children, teaching them to learn to read a dog’s body language and learning how not to trigger its wild side. Talk to a dog behaviour expert and join a training or two to learn more about dealing with an angry canine.

Remember, it is important to make your pet feel safe, respected, and of course, loved. Otherwise your furry best friend will become hostile, jeopardising the welfare of the entire family.