DAVIS COUNTY—Recently, Davis County and other Utah residents have seen a strange uptick in dog attacks. These attacks, which in some cases have resulted in severe injury and intense medical attention, have spurred discussion about dog attacks in general, what kinds of breeds should be allowed, which are more dangerous, and so on. An in-depth look at the numbers behind dog attacks across the country can help residents see the bigger picture, and make a more informed decision.

According to Forbes, 4.5 million Americans are attacked by dogs each year. Of these attacks, experts estimate that 800,000 are severe enough to cause hospital visits, with only 30-50 of those dying each year from dog attacks. The number of annual fatalities may seem low in comparison to attacks, but across the country, countless people are affected by the loss of one of those 30-50. 

With a minimal percentage of stray dogs contributing to attacks, what pets are responsible for the majority of dog attacks? According to the data collected by Forbes, it may come as no surprise that pit bulls lead the pack in both dog attacks by breed, as well as dog attacks that result in death. With the numbers clearly reflecting a propensity toward aggression within that particular breed, many have brought up the question of nature versus nurture.

The nature versus nurture debate focuses on whether a dog can be aggressive due to instinct and breed, or if the blame ultimately rests with the owner if a combination of care, feeding, and upbringing will cause a dog to act aggressively. There is strong evidence for both sides of the argument, and many people have passionately argued in favor of each, which makes the consensus among experts, not all that surprising. 

Many studies done by different researchers have concluded that both factors are to blame for a dog’s aggressive behavior. There are inherent traits common to certain breeds of dogs that can cause them to act more aggressively than others, and if a dog, any dog, is raised with certain factors, that dog can be aggressive, and potentially attack people. Both cases, whether it be a particularly dangerous breed or a dog that was raised poorly, make for a dangerous situation.

The uptick in dog attacks in Utah, while reflecting the data favoring pit bulls, seems to have no clear correlation as to why more attacks have happened recently. Factors including the change in weather, change in environment or routine, or even a reflection of stress and anxiety of their owners could all be contributing factors. 

The most important thing to do in either case is to know the signs of aggression and know what to do in the event of an attack. Aggressive dogs, in many cases, will give signs before an attack:

• Tense body posture

• Bared teeth

• Growling

• Hair standing on end

If a dog is displaying signs of aggression like this, experts have given a few tips to diffuse the situation before the dog lunges or bites:

• Don’t make eye contact/don’t smile.

• Stand sideways, keeping hands in fists.

• Slowly back away.

• Don’t run.

• Try to keep something between you, and the dog (a sweater, bag, stick, etc.)

Often, dogs like pit bulls won’t offer any sort of warning, or, even after trying to diffuse the situation, the dog will still attack. The following pointers may just save a life if followed during a dog attack:

• Use a forearm or shin to give the dog something to latch on to – the dog will bite, so it’s better to give it something less vital to bite.

• Do your best to stay upright. If the dog drags you down, curl up, and protect your face and neck.

• Don’t try to extricate your limb until the dog is subdued – this will only worsen the injury.

• If a dog is latched on, it’s a fight for survival – attack eyes, throat, underbelly, and any sensitive areas to get the dog off of you.

• If the situation is dire, find a way to fall on the dog, breaking ribs is a quick way to ensure they stop the attack.

As unpleasant as any of these tactics may seem, if a dog attacks it can be a life-or-death situation. Even if the injuries don’t cause death, often serious medical attention is required to stave off infection, or worse.