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My vaccinated dog bit me. Is there a rabies risk or aggression issue?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 7 months old

Hello, Today (Sunday, 26/11/2017), I was walking my dog, who had his vaccines back in August, and he spotted another male dog and tried to go after him. As I held him back he got more agitated and turned around and bit me for a split second. The bite went through my pants. The wound isn't deep and I washed it with soap and water. The thing is, although I'm not worried he has rabies, he licks the mouths of dogs who aren't vaccinated. So could that be a risk to me from the bite? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2017

I'm sorry Tramp bit you! No, there is no risk of rabies to you from the bite. Even though he licks the mouths of dogs who aren't vaccinated, rabies is only passed from dogs who currently have it and he will not have it given he is vaccinated. As for him going after other dogs, I see that he isn't neutered. Intact males can be aggressive toward other dogs, and when they can't reach the object of their aggression, they turn on the nearest human or animal. It's called redirected aggression and it's serious. I recommend neutering him and having him seen by a professional behavioral expert to deal with his aggression. It can and does get worse over time, and you don't want him to attack another person's pet or a child. Something like that will have serious consequences for him. Good luck, I hope this helps!
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