About 4 1/2 million people were bitten by dogs in 1994, according to estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Protection. Victims required medical attention in 800,000 of those cases. Fifteen people died.

Insurance companies paid out approximately $1 billion to cover dog-bite claims that same year.

Dog owners can help reduce this painful, costly problem. The Humane Society offers the following advice:

• Spay or neuter. Sterilization will reduce aggression and decrease a dog's tendency to roam.
• Train and socialize. Set limits on behavior to help your dog become a trustworthy member of your family and community.
• Teach appropriate behavior. Don't play aggressive games with your dog, such as wrestling, tug of war or "siccing" your dog on another person. It's essential that your dog recognize you and all the members of your family, including children, as dominant.
• Be responsible. License and vaccinate your dog and don't allow it to roam.
• Be caring. Make your dog part of the family. Dogs which spend too much time in the doghouse or tied in the yard have a much greater chance of developing behavioral problems. Well-socialized dogs are much less likely to bite.
• Error on the safe side. Be cautious if you don't know how your dog will react to a new situation. If it may panic in crowds, leave it home. If it may overreact to visitors or delivery persons, keep it in another room. Help your dog become accustomed to a variety of situations.
• Look for warning signs. A dog may show aggression by disobeying or showing signs of dominance, especially over small children, such as growling or nipping. If your dog ever attacks another animal without provocation, seek professional advice immediately. Proper training can usually stop aggressive behavior.

How to avoid being bitten by a dog. Though dogs sometimes attack without provocation, they often are incited by the actions of people around them. Here are some ways to avoid dog bites:

• Never approach a dog you don't know, especially if it's tied up or confined, or barking, growling or snarling.
• Never run up to, or past, a dog. Their instinct is to chase and catch prey.
• If the dog is with the owner, always ask, "May I pet your dog?"
• If the owner says, "Yes", approach the dog from its side. If the owner says, "No", it's normally because the dog doesn't feel comfortable with strangers and they are keeping you safe.
• If the owner gives permission, gently, with a balled fist, present the back of your hand for the dog to sniff. Presenting your hand in this way is similar to a human handshake.
• Pet the dog with gentle, slow movements and speak to the dog in soft tones. Most dogs like to be petted on the chin, chest and behind the ears, though it's wise to ask the owner what the dog enjoys before petting.