Dog attacks can be avoided.  Regrettably most media stories of dog attacks on people, and especially children, focus on the injuries caused, rather than what could and should be done to avoid such incidents in the future.  

Bark Busters have compiled this information to help you avoid being bitten or seriously injured by a dog.

Most people are bitten by dogs because they either misread the dog's intentions, or react the wrong way when approached by a dog. Dogs have poor eyesight and therefore have to come very close to something to assess it. A dog sighting something moving past it's yard will most likely bark and growl, which is it's way of instilling fear in its foe, then run at the person. The dog needs to get very close in order to scent what it is, and this is where people usually get bitten. Instead of stopping and allowing the dog to sniff them, most people think the dog is trying to get close to bite them, and either kick out at the dog or run. All this does is make the dog retaliate and attack.

The best way to avoid an attack by a dog you see running at you is to stand totally still. Do not move a muscle, and do not try to pat the dog - even some dogs that appear friendly might not like being touched. Wait for the dog to lose interest in you.

Some dogs love food above all else. By carrying some doggy treats around with you, you could avoid being bitten. However, do not hand feed the dog. Instead, drop the food on the ground and remain still. Keep your eye on the dog, but do not stare. Dogs do not like to be stared at as they view it as threatening.