The Humane Society of the United States and the United States Postal Service offer these tips on preventing dog bites.

How can I avoid being bitten by a dog?

• Never approach a strange dog, especially one who’s tied up or confined behind a fence or in a car.
• Don’t pet a dog, even your own, without letting him or her see and sniff you first.
• Never turn your back to a dog and run away. A dog’s natural instinct is to chase and catch fleeing prey.
• Don’t disturb a dog while he or she is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies.
• Be cautious around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn’t know you may see you as an intruder or as a threat.

What should I do if I think a dog may attack?

• Never scream and run. Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye contact with the dog.
• Remain motionless with your hands at your sides until the dog loses interest in you, then slowly back away until he or she is out of site. Never turn your back to the dog
• If the dog does attack, "feed" him or her your jacket, purse, or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and your chin tucked to your chest and remain motionless. Try not to scream or roll around.