A new thought on preventing dog bites, ASK THE DOG! With dog bites increasing (including fatalities), we must be missing something. Appropriately, we teach our children (and hopefully adults follow the same advice) ask the handler, "Can I pet your dog?” That’s obviously not enough. Why not also ask the dog? A new protocol, called S.T.O.P.P. is described, and why asking the dog permission to be petted may not only lower dog bites but also educate the public about dog signaling, as well as to improve dog welfare. Considering the dog is consistent with Fear Free standards and the relatively new concept of consent. It turns out, if you ask dogs, they do answer. Other explanations for the increasing dog bite numbers are also discussed. Veterinarians and technicians can make a difference in clinic to instruct clients on dog signaling, even during routine exams. If bite numbers continue to escalate so will clinic insurance, and other repercussion which will make America less dog friendlier. Learning objectives Current dog bite data, and the escalation of bites is significant; who gets bitten most often and why. Why clients paying close attention to what dogs are saying may lower dog bite claims (and why that will benefit anyone with homeowners/renters insurance whether they have a dog or not). Why S.T.O.P.P. matters, and asking consent of the dog improves canine health and welfare.