(CNN) – Dogs bite more than 4.7 million Americans each year and about 800,000 of those bites require medical attention. But experts say there are steps we can take to help prevent dog bites.
We've all heard the expression, a dog is a man's best friend. But to make this relationship work, people need to know how to read a dog's body language so they don't feel threatened.
"Most dogs that bite are only doing so because they are scared and want to warn you to back away," said dog trainer Victoria Stilwell. "Most important thing to remember is give it space. Do not go into that dog's space."
Stilwell said let the dog come to you. Turn your body to the side so that you look less threatening, put your hand in a fist and hold your hand down so the dog can sniff your fist.
"When you meet a dog as well, don't stare in its eyes," she said. "Don't smile at it, because staring at its eyes is a challenge, it's a threat."
She also suggests to pet the animal on the back of the neck or on its back and not on the top of the head.
Yawning and lip licking may be signs that the dog feels uncomfortable and wants you to back away.
Try not to run from a dog or scream. If you go get knocked over, roll into a ball, lie still and cover your head.
When it comes to avoiding dog bites, knowing what to look for in our four-legged friends can help both man and dog stay safe.
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