Although a dog may have its reasons for biting, it isn’t always justified. Here are some dog bite prevention tips to keep your dog from biting on a whim.

1. Ask about a dog’s background before adopting it. Professional breeders can show you the dam that it breeds so you can determine its aggressive potential. Research has shown that an aggressive dam can yield aggressive pups.
2. Think about spaying or neutering. Altering a dog will almost always lessen its aggressive nature.
3. Don’t allow nipping. If you notice that your dog takes small bites while you’re playing with him, correct it every single time it happens. If you don’t, your dog may think nipping is permissible and nip just a little harder each time to the point where he’s actually biting!
4. Always teach your dog that you’re in control of things. The ideal dog shouldn’t demonstrate aggression unless you’ve given it the command to do so. Even if the two of you play tug-of-war – a fairly aggressive game – your dog must not cross the no-biting or no-aggression line.
5. Socialize the dog immediately. This is the #1 dog bite prevention tip we could ever give you. The earlier your dog is introduced to other animals and people, the less prone it will be towards perceiving everyone and everything as a threat.
6. Exercise caution in new situations or environments. Even though your dog may be socialized, the potential to bite still exists. If you take your dog to a new area or around new people, bring and use a leash. Don’t be afraid to use restraint and always be on the look out for a threatening situation (that is, threatening to a dog).