A Veterinarian’s Perspective
Dog bite wounds are a common emergency in veterinary practice. Whether it’s a scuffle at the dog park or a fight between housemates, bite wounds can look deceptively minor on the surface but often cause serious damage beneath the skin. As a veterinarian, I advise pet owners to treat all bite wounds seriously—regardless of how small they may seem.
Why Dog Bites Are a Medical Concern
When a dog bites another dog, its teeth can puncture deep into muscle, fat, and tissue—creating pockets where bacteria are pushed in. Even a small puncture can lead to:
- Abscesses
- Cellulitis (skin infection)
- Tissue death
- Sepsis (systemic infection)
- Damage to nerves or organs
Bite wounds also carry a high bacterial load from the dog’s mouth, which increases the risk of infection.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Bitten
1. Check for Injuries Carefully
Look for:
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Pain or sensitivity when touched
- Limping or difficulty moving
- Puncture wounds or torn skin
Bite wounds are often hidden under fur and may not be immediately obvious.
2. Stop Any Bleeding
Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop within a few minutes, seek emergency care.
3. Avoid Cleaning It Too Aggressively at Home
You can gently flush the area with saline or clean water if you’re trained to do so, but avoid using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or strong antiseptics—they can delay healing and damage tissue.
4. Keep Your Dog Calm and Restrict Movement
Limit your dog’s activity and prevent licking or scratching at the wound. Use an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) if necessary.
5. Seek Veterinary Attention Immediately
Even if the wound looks minor, a veterinary exam is essential. We will:
- Assess the depth and location of the wound
- Clean and flush the wound properly (sometimes under sedation)
- Prescribe antibiotics and pain medications
- Suture the wound if appropriate (not all bites are closed immediately)
- Evaluate for internal injuries or infections
Bites near the neck, chest, abdomen, joints, or eyes are particularly urgent.
What Not to Do
- Don’t assume it’s “just a scratch.” Many infections set in within 24–48 hours.
- Don’t delay veterinary care. Time matters when preventing infection.
- Don’t give human medications like ibuprofen or Tylenol—many are toxic to dogs.
Aftercare and Monitoring
Once your dog is treated:
- Keep the wound clean and dry
- Follow all medication instructions
- Monitor for swelling, redness, discharge, or pain
- Prevent licking or chewing at the site
- Return for rechecks if advised
Preventing Dog Fights and Bites
- Supervise dogs during play, especially with new or unfamiliar dogs
- Be cautious with toys, food, or high-stress environments
- Use proper introductions when bringing a new dog home
- Learn canine body language to spot tension early
Final Thoughts
Dog bite wounds should never be taken lightly. Prompt veterinary care can prevent complications, speed recovery, and reduce the risk of serious infections. When in doubt—always bring your dog in for an exam. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wounds that can turn dangerous quickly.