< Back to Previous Page Characterizing Deaths From Dog Attacks Injury Center researchers examined data about deadly dog attacks that occurred during 1979–1998. They found that at least 25 breeds of dogs had been involved in the fatal attacks. However, pit bull-type dogs and Rottweilers were involved in more than half of the deaths for which the breed was known. Of the 227 fatal attacks for which data were available, more than two-thirds of attacks involved a single dog, and more than half involved dogs that were unrestrained on their owner's property. The findings of this study provide insight into the circumstances surrounding deadly dog attacks that may help shape prevention efforts. Campaign to educate Georgians about dog bites With support from CDC, the Georgia Division of Public Health will conduct a dog bite prevention campaign in Chatham, Bullock, and Effingham Counties. These counties will provide a mix of rural, suburban, and urban populations, making community-wide educational outreach activities easier to conduct. The campaign will use educational materials and media outreach to teach children, parents, dog owners, health care providers and other adults about the risk of dog bite–related injuries and about strategies for preventing such injuries. Project staff will evaluate whether the campaign changes people's beliefs and actions and reduces the number of dog bite–related injuries occurring in the three counties. Results of this research can guide future efforts to prevent dog bites and associated injuries and deaths.

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