Children and Dog Bites: Why they’re at Greater Risk and How Families Can Protect Them

Dog bites are a serious concern, especially for young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children are more likely than adults to be bitten by dogs, and their injuries are often more severe. Children’s natural curiosity and lack of awareness about dog behavior put them at greater risk throughout California, whether at a park, a friend’s house, or in public.

At National Injury Help, our San Diego personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and legal challenges that families face after a dog bite. Here’s why children are more vulnerable to dog attacks and how parents can help keep them safe.

Why Are Children More Vulnerable to Dog Bites?

Children are naturally drawn to dogs, often approaching them with excitement and curiosity. Unlike adults, children may not recognize the warning signs of an agitated or fearful dog, putting them at greater risk of injury.

Some of the most common risk factors include:

• Size and Height – Children are smaller, putting their faces and necks at the level of a dog’s mouth, increasing the risk of severe injuries.
• Unpredictable Movements – Kids often run, jump, and make sudden movements that can startle dogs and trigger defensive or aggressive reactions.
• Lack of Awareness – Many children don’t recognize warning signs of stress or aggression in dogs, such as growling, stiff body language, or backing away.
• Friendly but Uninformed Interactions – Kids may unknowingly approach a dog while it’s eating, sleeping, or protecting its territory, increasing the chances of a bite.

If a dog has bitten your child, taking swift action is essential. Understanding your legal rights can make all the difference in ensuring your child’s safety and well-being.

How Families Can Prevent Dog Bites

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in preventing dog-related injuries.

Here are some essential safety tips:

• Teach Children Proper Dog Behavior – Explain that dogs don’t always want to be hugged or approached and that pulling ears or tails can provoke a bite.
• Supervise Interactions – Never leave young children alone with a dog, even if it’s a family pet.
• Ask Before Petting – Encourage children to ask the dog’s owner for permission before approaching or petting a dog.
• Recognize Warning Signs – Teach kids to respect a dog’s space if it shows discomfort, such as lip licking, growling, or raised fur.
• Avoid Disturbing Dogs While They Eat or Sleep – Many bites occur when children unknowingly startle a resting or feeding dog.

Awareness is the first step in preventing dog bite injuries. Families and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk by educating children about proper dog interactions and monitoring their behavior around animals.

What to Do If a Dog Bites Your Child

If a dog bites your child, take immediate action:

• Seek Medical Attention – Even minor bites can lead to infections or require stitches.
• Identify the Dog and Its Owner – Obtain contact information and vaccination records, especially for rabies concerns.
• Report the Incident – Notify local animal control or the San Diego Health Department to document the bite and determine if the dog has a history of aggression.
• Take Photos and Gather Evidence – Document the injury and the location of the attack for legal purposes.
• Consult a Dog Bite Attorney – Dog owners are strictly liable for bites in California. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is legally responsible regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or whether the owner was negligent.

How National Injury Help Can Assist

Dog bites can leave lasting physical and emotional scars, especially for children. California law holds dog owners strictly liable for bites in most cases, meaning families may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.Consult a Dog Bite Attorney at San Diego.

At National Injury Help, our San Diego County personal injury lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured children and their families. If a dog bites your child, contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options.