Dog bites are most often unprovoked and aimed at children. Most dog bites are as a result of owner negligence, either thru failure to properly contain them or through lack of restraining them around people when the animal is known to be possibly dangerous. A dog wandering a neighborhood is not always dangerous, but can become so under certain circumstances. In addition, a dog owner must have their pet regularly vaccinated against rabies, as this is an additional risk someone could encounter if bitten by a dog.

Because children have little ability to defend themselves against an attacking dog, they are often the target of dog attacks. Following a dog bite, serious medical treatment is normally necessary. Surgery is common, with extensive medical treatment that is long and painful. Permanent scarring can occur, necessitating plastic surgery.