Researchers from the American Academy of Family Physicians report that more than 4 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Of these, approximately 800,000 (or about 45 percent) are under the age of 14. Dozens die as a result of these injuries.
Nearly 35 million American households own canines, many more than one, meaning there are more than 55 million dogs in the country. Most of them are never going to be a threat. However, just about any dog has the potential to hurt someone if the circumstances are just right. About half of all reported dog bite cases involve a pet that is owned by either the family of the victim or neighbors.
Often, these involve an animal that is not provoked. Sadly, a large number of deaths involving babies and dogs occur when the baby is simply sleeping.
Even if a bite isn't fatal or cause severe injury, there is a possibility you could be at great risk for an infection. About 20 percent of people bitten suffer some degree of infection. People with the following conditions are at particular risk:
- Chronic edema (or insufficient blood flow) to the arms or legs;
- Diabetes;
- Immune deficiencies;
- Liver disease;
- Mastectomy;
- Those with prosthetic joints or valves;
- Lupus.
While any dog has the potential to inflict harm, some breeds are known to have a history of greater aggression than others. These include: Cocker Spaniel, Chow Chow, German Shepherd, Grate Dane, Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, Doberman Pinscher, Collie, Bull Terrier.
By contrast, the least aggressive dogs - those considered to be "family dogs," are: Boxer, Golden Retriever, Dalmatian, Irish Setter, English Setter, Labrador Retriever, English Springer, Spaniel.
Of course, there are Gold Retrievers that have been known to bite, and Rottweilers that are gentle to a fault. It depends on a myriad of factors, but the point is, every dog should be approached as if it has the potential to inflict injury to either you or your child.
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