U.S. insurers paid out $1.12 billion in dog-related injury claims in 2023, according to data released by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) and State Farm in conjunction with National Dog Bite Prevention Week in April. The Triple-I previously reported the number of dog-bite claims increased from 16,919 in 2003 to 17,802 in 2019, while the average cost per claim more than doubled from $19,162 to $44,760 for the same period. Any dog can bite, particularly when the animal feels threated, afraid, anxious or protective. (Likewise, any breed deemed "aggressive" can be tamed with proper socialization and training.) The fact remains that statistically, some breeds are associated with dangerous biting behavior more than others. The slideshow above illustrates dogs typically considered the friendliest of canines and therefore least likely to bite, as selected by PetMD. |

Preventing dog bites

Celebrity dog trainer and animal behaviorist Victoria Stilwell urges pet parents to deepen their understanding of their dog through training. "It's this knowledge that not only enriches the relationship between dogs and people, but helps reduce the likelihood of bites from occurring," Stillwell says. The following tips were compiled by the Tripe-I and State Farm to curtail bite incidents: |

• Make sure your pet is healthy. Not all illnesses and injuries are obvious, and dogs are more likely to bite if they are sick or in pain. If you haven't been to the veterinarian in a while, schedule an appointment for a checkup to discuss your dog's physical and behavioral health.
• Prioritize proper socialization: Socialization involves gently introducing your dog to a range of settings, people, and other animals, and ensuring these experiences are positive. Whether it's quietly observing the bustle of a park, meeting new people in a controlled manner, or getting used to the sights and sounds of your neighborhood, each positive experience builds confidence. Remember, socialization is a lifelong journey, not just a puppy phase.
• Take it slow. If your dog has been mainly interacting with your family since you brought them home, don't rush out into crowded areas or dog parks. Try to expose your dogs to new situations slowly and for short periods of time, arrange for low-stress interactions, and look for behaviors that indicate your dog is comfortable and happy to remain in the situation.
• Understand your dog's needs and educate yourself in positive training techniques. Recognize your dog's body language and advocate for them in all situations. This will give your dog much needed skills and help you navigate any challenges you might encounter.
• Be responsible about approaching other people's pets. Ask permission from the owner before approaching a dog, and look for signs that the dog wants to interact with you. Sometimes dogs want to be left alone, and we need to recognize and respect that.
• Walk your dog on a leash. Recognize changes in your dog's body language indicating they may not be comfortable.
• Always monitor your dog's activity, even when they are in the backyard at your own house, because they can be startled by something, get out of the yard and possibly injure someone or be injured themselves.

See also: |

• Which dog breeds are most likely to bite?
• The 10 most aggressive dog breeds
• Denied: These dog breeds are flagged by home insurers