Short answer: first make sure the person is safe and gets any medical care they need. Then keep your dog away from the situation that led to the bite and ask for professional help. Do not wait to see if it happens again.
Right now
Calmly separate your dog from the person. Put your dog in a quiet room or crate so everyone can settle. Offer the person help and your contact details. Do not scold your dog.
Why you should act on a first bite
The Ohio State University veterinary hospital handout says to seek help the first time your dog bites, rather than waiting. Your vet can check for pain or illness, and a qualified behavior professional can look at what happened and what to change.
Until you have help
Manage the situation. Keep your dog away from the person, place or setting involved. Use a gate, a leash or a closed door. Do not set up a repeat to see what happens. For why management comes before training, see management first.
Get the right help
Call your vet, then ask for a referral to a qualified, reward-based behavior professional. A bite needs a professional evaluation, so use these steps only to keep everyone safe until then. If the bite broke skin or was serious, check your local rules on reporting it, since they vary.
This article is general education, not veterinary advice. If your dog seems unwell, is in pain, or something changed suddenly, call your vet. If it could be an emergency, do not wait.
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Sources
Sources & care notes
Frequently asked questions
What do I do right now?
Make sure the person is safe and gets any medical care they need, then calmly separate your dog to a quiet room and offer your contact details.
Why act on a first bite?
The Ohio State University veterinary hospital advises seeking help the first time a dog bites rather than waiting for a repeat.
Should I scold my dog?
No. Scolding adds stress without safety. Keep your dog away from the person, place or setting involved with a gate, leash or closed door.
Who can help?
Your vet can check for pain or illness, and a qualified behavior professional can build a plan for the future.
