If you are teasing a dog, or playing roughly, he may snap or bite. Teach children to always play gently, making sure that the dog is enjoying it. Often, dogs are trying to protect something when they bite.
Dogs feel very protective of their family, house, and personal belongings.
Like many people, dogs sometimes get startled. Be careful not to approach them when they are asleep, or make a loud nose or quick gesture, or even come up behind them without them knowing it. Dogs may bite when they are sick or hurt. They do not know if we are trying to help them or hurt them. Teach children to alway call an adult to examine a sick or injured dog, even if it is their own dog.