Dog bites can cause serious injury.

Every year, I get calls from a tormented and angry parent.

“My child was bitten by a dog. My child will be scarred for life.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are approximately 4.5 million dog bites per year. These bites cost over $1 billion, accounting for almost 1/4 of the total number of homeowners insurance liability claims. Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite liability. The following tips can help reduce the chances of your dog biting someone:

1. Have your dog spayed or neutered. These procedures will greatly reduce the likelihood that the dog will bite.

2. Socialize your dog so that it knows how to act with other people and animals.

3. Play non-aggressive games with your dog such as “go fetch.” Playing aggressive games like “tug-of-war” can encourage inappropriate behavior.

4. Avoid exposing your dog to situations in which you are unsure what the dog’s response will be. Insurers may charge more for certain breeds of dogs.

If your child is injured from a dog bite, it is important to learn about your rights.