Nearly half of American households (45 percent) own one more dogs, according to the latest data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). That’s nearly 88 million canine companions.

Dog bites remain a serious concern, with more than 4.5 million people bitten each year in the United States.

During National Dog Bite Prevention Week (April 7-13), a coalition of veterinarians, animal behavior experts and insurance representatives are urging people to understand the risks dog bites pose and to take steps to prevent bites from happening.

“Dogs are not just pets; they are beloved members of our households, providing joy, companionship and comfort in our lives,” said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the AVMA. “While the reality is that any dog can bite, most such incidents are preventable. As we mark National Dog Bite Prevention Week, let’s commit to increasing our understanding of the issue and taking proactive steps toward prevention. Together, we can nurture the bonds we share with our dogs and ensure the safety of our families and communities.”

Members of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition—including the AVMA, State Farm, Insurance Information Institute (Triple I) and Victoria Stilwell Positively—will host a Facebook Live event on Thursday, April 11, at Noon Central.

The event, moderated by certified animal behavior consultant and radio host Steve Dale, will discuss training tips to help prevent bites, how to safely socialize your dog after a period of isolation, and how to recognize the warning signs that a dog may bite, the AVMA said.

In addition, the coalition will release the latest dog-related injury claims data.

Cases of bites involving children are of particular concern.

More than 50 percent of all dog-related injuries are to children, and for those under four years of age, those bites are often to vulnerable head and neck regions, which is why it is so important to never leave children unsupervised with dogs, even if they’re family pets, the AVMA explained.

In 2023, the number of dog bite and related injury claims was 19,062, an increase of more than 8 percent from 2022 and a 110 percent increase over the past decade, according to Janet Ruiz, director of strategic communications at the Insurance Information Institute.

The cost of dog bite claims totaled $1.12 billion.

The average cost per claim decreased from $64,555 in 2022 to $58,545 in 2023, according to Triple-I data.

California, Florida and Texas had the most claims.

“Education and training for owners and pets is key to keep everyone safe and healthy,” said Ruiz.

“As the largest property insurer in the country, State Farm is committed to educating people about pet owner responsibility and how to safely interact with dogs,” said Heather Paul, media relations specialist at State Farm. “It is important to recognize that any dog, including ones that are in the home, can bite or cause injury. Every dog has a unique personality and while breed or type may dictate how they look, how a dog reacts isn’t guaranteed by those qualities.”

“While dog bites are a serious public health issue, the good news is that most dog bites are preventable,” said AVMA President Dr. Carlson. “By taking steps to train and properly socialize our dogs, and educate ourselves and loved ones on dog bite prevention, we can help reduce bites and keep dogs in loving homes, where they belong.”