**Dogs bite due to fear, territorial behavior, lack of socialization, or painful health conditions.** Recognizing warning signs like growling and stiff posture helps avoid bites. Even friendly-seeming dogs can bite unpredictably. Why Do Dogs Bite… and Can You Prevent It From Happening? Being bitten by a dog can be scary …

**Common dog bite misconceptions include the myth that tail wagging means friendliness and that small dogs can’t cause serious injury.** Tail wagging may indicate fear or excitement, not happiness, and small dogs inflict serious facial and hand injuries. All dog bites warrant medical attention and legal review. Common Misconceptions About …

After a dog bite in Illinois, seek immediate medical treatment, identify the dog owner, report to animal control, collect witness information, and photograph your injuries. Document all medical treatment and related expenses. Illinois’s strict liability means the owner is liable regardless of the dog’s past behavior. Illinois Dog Bite Laws: …