Dog Bites in Children: Prevention, First Aid, and Treatment

Dogs are often loving companions, but bites can happen, especially with children. Whether from a pet or a stray, dog bites can lead to infections, pain, and trauma. Knowing how to prevent bites, provide immediate first aid, and seek medical care can ensure your child stays safe.

Children are at a higher risk of dog bites due to their small size, unpredictable movements, and tendency to approach dogs without caution. Most bites occur on the face, hands, or arms, which can lead to serious injuries or infections.

• Fear or stress – When a child gets too close to a scared dog.

• Protectiveness – Over food, toys, or their owner.

• Pain or illness – A sick or injured dog may bite when touched.

• Rough play – Pulling ears, tails, or sudden movements can provoke a bite.

1. Teach Kids How to Interact with Dogs

• Always ask for the owner’s permission before petting a dog.

• Approach slowly and calmly, letting the dog sniff before touching.

• Avoid hugging, kissing, or grabbing a dog suddenly.

• Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.

2. Recognize Signs of an Uncomfortable Dog

Teach children to back away if a dog shows:

• Growling or baring teeth

• Ears pulled back or stiff body

• Tail tucked between legs

• Avoiding eye contact or trying to move away

3. Keep Stray Dogs Away

• Never let children approach or feed stray dogs.

• If a stray dog approaches, stay still and avoid eye contact.

• Teach kids to stand like a tree (arms crossed, no sudden movements).

4. Supervise Dog Interactions

• Never leave small children alone with a dog, even a family pet.

• If a child gets too rough, remove them from the situation.

If your child is bitten, act quickly to reduce infection risk and pain.

1. Clean the Wound Immediately

• Wash the bite area with soap and warm water for at least 5 minutes.

• Let it bleed slightly to remove germs unless it’s a deep wound.

• Apply antiseptic solution (like iodine or hydrogen peroxide).

2. Control Bleeding

• Use a clean cloth or gauze to apply gentle pressure.

• If bleeding continues for more than 10 minutes, seek medical help.

3. Apply a Bandage

• Cover the wound with a sterile dressing.

• Change the bandage daily and monitor for signs of infection.

Seek medical attention if:

• The bite is deep, large, or bleeding heavily.

• The skin is torn or punctured.

• The bite becomes red, swollen, or pus-filled (signs of infection).

• Your child develops fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes.

• The dog is unknown, unvaccinated, or a stray.

• Rabies: If the dog is unvaccinated or unknown, urgent rabies shots may be needed.

• Tetanus: If your child hasn’t had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years, a booster may be required.

A pediatrician or emergency doctor can assess the risk and start treatment if necessary.

1. Infection Risks

Dog bites can introduce bacteria like Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus, leading to cellulitis or abscess formation.

2. Emotional Trauma

Children may develop fear of dogs, nightmares, or anxiety after a bite. Counseling or gradual exposure therapy can help them regain confidence.

3. Scarring and Cosmetic Concerns

Facial or deep bites may require stitches or plastic surgery to minimize scars.

Dog bites in children can be prevented with proper education and supervision. However, if a bite occurs, quick first aid and medical evaluation are essential. Always monitor for infections and ensure your child’s rabies and tetanus vaccinations are up to date.

By teaching kids safe dog interactions and recognizing signs of an anxious dog, you can create a safe environment for both children and pets.

1. American Academy of Pediatrics. “Dog Bite Prevention for Families.” www.aap.org

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Preventing Dog Bites.” www.cdc.gov

3. World Health Organization (WHO). “Rabies and Animal Bites.” www.who.int