Everyone should know, for example, how to read a dog's body language. A fearful animal holds its ears down, tucks its tail and may shake, growl or back away. Trying to befriend it is inviting an attack, Hunthausen says. Cut a wide swath around such an animal. If you are approached by an aggressive dog, the best defense is to freeze.
Dogs interpret direct eye contact as a threat or challenge.
Avoid sensitive spots About 70 percent of children are bitten by dogs they know. When petting any dog, pet along the side or back of the animal's body, not the head, face or ears, which are more sensitive. Don't tease the dog or play rough. Never bother a dog when it is eating, resting, sleeping or chewing on something. Don't pet a dog that is not your own without permission.