What is a category 1, 2, and 3 dog bite?

Elaina Tromp
2025-05-19 00:12:38
Count answers: 4
A level one bite occurs when a dog snaps at the air without making contact with a person or animal. This is a warning behavior, often seen when a dog feels cornered, frightened, or overwhelmed.
In a level two bite, a dog’s teeth make contact with the skin, causing redness or bruising but no punctures. This type of bite often serves as a stronger warning.
A level three bite is when a dog’s teeth puncture the skin, leaving bloody marks. This level is divided into single and multiple bites.

Pete Abshire
2025-05-18 23:18:20
Count answers: 3
A category 1 dog bite is aggressive but with no skin contact, the dog is aggressive, showing its teeth, snapping and growling, possibly snagging clothing, without actually making contact with the victim’s skin. In the case of Level 1, the dog may be showing fear or insecurity rather than true aggression.
A category 2 dog bite is where teeth make contact, but do not break skin, the dog is sending a message that it is uncomfortable with a situation, that it is stressed. The dog’s teeth may leave a mark, but don’t break skin.
A category 3 dog bite is a single bite with shallow wounds, whatever the reason for a Level 3 bite, whether rough play that escalates, fear, poor socialization, or something else, this level of aggression must be dealt with. The dog should be taken to a vet or trainer as soon as possible. This is generally a serious problem that needs attention.
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