For centuries, dogs have been called man’s best friend. But is that really true? A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study shows that dogs are more likely to bite people than any other animal. In the United States, almost 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Of those bitten, nearly one-third require medical attention. And tragically, about 20% of dog bite victims require surgery, and some die from injuries.

Let’s look at the 5 most vulnerable parts a dog supposedly bites:

Hands

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the hands are the body part most likely to be affected by a dog bite. This happens because people often put their hands near a dog’s mouth when petting it or trying to get its attention. More than one-third of all dog bite injuries occur on the hand. 

Dog bites can cause serious injuries, including cuts, puncture wounds, and broken bones. They can also lead to infection if not treated properly. If a dog bites you, wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention as soon as possible. 

Lower Extremities

Dogs are often considered man’s best friend, but sometimes they can turn on their owners in a vicious attack. A recent study of lower extremity injuries caused by dog attacks found that most injuries were to the legs and feet. Dogs often try to disable their victims by attacking their legs. 

The study also found that lacerations were the most common type of injury, which can often lead to severe blood loss. In addition, the study found that children were more likely than adults to be injured in a dog attack. 

Upper extremity

A dog bites a human typically goes for the person’s upper extremities. This is because those areas are not as protected as the torso and legs. The dog may try to go for the throat, neck, and head, which can cause more serious injuries. People often try to protect these sensitive areas when a dog is biting them.

Face

Compared to adults, kids are more likely to get bitten in the face. The study also found that this is generally due to their shorter stature and the fact that they often play. Dogs may view children as prey because of their size and may bite them more often in the face. 

The CDC recommends that parents should teach their children how to interact with dogs, avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs, and never run from a dog. If a child is bitten, they should seek medical attention right away.

Buttocks

While a dog can bite any body part, the upper extremities are typically the most common target. This is likely because they are more exposed when someone runs away from a dog. On the other hand, the buttocks are not usually exposed and are therefore less likely to be bitten as the victim runs away. 

Instead, when a dog bites the buttocks, it is usually because the victim is on the ground, trying to defend their body, and the dog is biting both their lower extremities and buttocks simultaneously. 

It is important to know how to react when a dog bite occurs. First, try to stay calm and avoid making any sudden movements that could scare the dog. If you can, back away slowly until you reach a safe place.

Contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your case

While any dog can bite, certain breeds are more likely to attack. Pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, and huskies are some of the most dangerous breeds. However, any dog can become aggressive if it feels threatened or is mistreated.

If a dog has bitten you, you may be wondering whether or not you should hire a lawyer. Many people are hesitant to consult a lawyer because they think it will be too expensive or unsure if they even have a case. However, hiring a lawyer may be the best decision that you can make, especially if you are seeking compensation from an insurance company. 

Plus, the consultation is usually free, and most lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay a penny from your pocket unless you win. 

Conclusion

Dogs are considered man’s best friend for a reason. They are devoted, loving, and always delighted to see their owners. But even the most well-behaved dog can become agitated or territorial and lash out, biting their owner or a stranger. You must seek medical attention immediately if a dog bites you. You may also want to contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options. Bites from certain dogs can carry serious infection risks, so getting help as soon as possible is crucial.