There had been 13 dog attacks this year so far, with four of them by American pitbulls, Mr Coutts said.
He said statistics showed American pitbulls were over-represented in attacks on people.
"We wouldn't have dog bites if owners were responsible. It all comes down to owner responsibility.
"I've never been to a dog job where it's the dog's fault," he said.
"It is the owner's fault the dog is in that situation."
Mr Coutts said education was extremely important, and with young children he based his talk on how to prevent getting bitten.
Aspects he went over included how to pat dogs and to ask the owner's permission, with the main thing he pushed being "if a dog is on its own, leave it alone".
- The talk starts at 10.30am in the library's Haupapa Room and is suitable for ages 3 and up. Email library@rotorualc.nz or call (07) 348 4177 to register.
- For video of Kevin Coutts talking about the topic go to rotoruadailypost.co.nz.
