Generally, dogs do not actively bite people

Under normal circumstances, unless the dog has a very irritable temperament or a naturally fierce personality, biting people rarely occurs. Moreover, dogs usually show some preliminary signs before biting; it is rare for them to just bite immediately. In most cases, dogs bite for a reason. In certain specific situations, dogs can become relatively sensitive, and attempting to interact with them during these times may lead to attacks.

1. Dogs That Are Naturally Timid

For dogs that are naturally timid, many things can frighten them. They may either try to avoid what they fear or attack out of fear. For dogs, their most powerful weapon is their teeth. Regardless of whether the dog is large or small, their bite can still be quite harmful. Timid dogs generally have less contact with people; being timid and wary of strangers increases the likelihood of biting.

For such dogs, it is important to take them out more often and not always resist their interaction with the outside world out of fear for their safety. This kind of approach will not improve the situation, and ultimately, the only one who can get close to them may be yourself.

2. Biting Due to Food Guarding

Food guarding is also considered a dog's natural instinct. For primitive dogs, some foods are scarce; once they have something to eat, they will not let it be taken away easily. Especially for some sensitive dogs, they must not be disturbed while eating.

This issue requires training from the owner. If training fails, you should make a step back and avoid disturbing the dog while it is eating. Usually, with some training, this behavior will improve.

Pregnancy, injury, and timidity are the main reasons dogs bite people

3. Dogs Are More Likely to Bite During Pregnancy and Nursing

When dogs are pregnant, their temperament changes significantly. A normally gentle dog may suddenly become very aggressive, not only being vigilant toward other dogs but extremely cautious of unfamiliar people. During this period, do not try to change its behavior with training or discipline since this is driven by maternal instinct and protection of puppies.

4. When Dogs Are Injured or Uncomfortable

Because dogs have long fur, sometimes external injuries that don’t bleed are not immediately noticed. Accidentally touching such wounds may cause the dog to retaliate. Injuries differ from illnesses; besides pain in a certain area, there is not much energy loss, and the dog is not weak overall. So, if you hurt it, it will resist, and if it is very painful, biting is possible. For such cases, the owner should observe the dog's movements for abnormalities. Regardless of whether the dog seems normal or not, one should avoid making large movements when petting and can perform gentle pressing to check the dog's whole body. Notice where the dog shows discomfort, part aside the fur to check for abnormalities.

Usually, dogs do not attack proactively. So when you see a dog, do not run away hastily; this may cause the dog to chase you. Do not provoke the dog without reason; calmly walking past may result in no trouble.