It can be very scary when you encounter a dog running towards you, especially if you are uncertain of the intentions of the dog. Not all approaching dogs are aggressive, but that's why it's good to stay calm and know how to react to prevent a possible dog bite. Here, at Dog Bite Safety, we believe in helping everyone receive knowledge and techniques for safe living situations with these animals.
In this blog, we will discuss what you should do in case a dog runs towards you and how you can protect yourself from the possible effects of a dog bite. Having an understanding of body language and knowing how to take the right steps in response will greatly lessen your chances of harm.
1. Remain Calm and Avoid Panic
It’s natural to feel scared if a dog starts running toward you, but the first and most important step is to stay calm. Panic can escalate the situation, making the dog more anxious and more likely to act aggressively. Dogs can sense fear and anxiety, which might make them more excited or defensive.
If you stay calm, move slowly, and avoid sudden gestures, you’re less likely to trigger the dog’s defensive or aggressive instincts. Keep your posture neutral and avoid running away, as this could provoke the dog to chase you. Also, you are not likely to outrun a dog anyway.
2. Assess the Situation: Is the Dog Playful or Aggressive?
Before acting, one needs to judge the dog's behavior. Some dogs, such as puppies or younger dogs, may approach you out of curiosity or for playtime. Other dogs will run towards you for more aggressive reasons. Look at these signs to judge the situation:
Playful Behavior:
Body wag
Relaxed body posture
Open mouth or panting- Not growling
Hopping around or running non-aggressive
Aggressive Behavior:
Raised hackles (fur standing on end along the back)
Growling or baring of the teeth
Stiff body posture or rigid movements
Fixed stare or in a straight line of approach
Whale-eye or not blinking
If the dog is aggressive, you need to draw immediate defensive measures to protect yourself.
3. Stand like a Tree
This is usually one of the best things you can do when dealing with aggression from a dog if the dog seems aggressive, then stand still. Dogs have the tendency to perceive running as an invitation to chase. By being stationary, you take away their natural predatory drive for the dog to pursue you.
Now, here's what you should do:
Face the dog with neutral, calm body language. Your hands should stay at your sides or in front of you.
Avoid locking eyes on the dog as some will view this as a challenge or threat.
Stand up tall, and try to present an unaggressive body. Be cautious of all extreme movements.
This is referred to as the "tree" posture and generally serves to diffuse a tense dog-training situation.
4. Barriers Made of Objects (If Available)
If you have some object like a jacket, bag, or umbrella, use it to create a gap between you and the dog. Create physical space between yourself and the dog that can protect you from a bite.
If there are no objects around you, seek to position yourself by an object, like a fence, a car, a trash can, or a tree. You will create a barrier for yourself and ensure more control over your safety.
5. Do not pet the dog or engage with it
Some dogs may approach with friendliness, but never approach such a dog or pet, even if you think it is friendly. Avoid any sudden movements or gestures that might be misinterpreted as a threat.
It's very important to let the dog come to you as it sees fit. Don't try to pet the dog or touch it. This might provoke the dog further. Keep your hands down and your body posture as neutral as possible.
6. Slowly Back Away
If the dog is not aggressive in behavior but continues to move towards you and you have time, you can back away slowly. Do not turn your back on the dog; do not run since running may stimulate its prey drive. Gradually move backwards while still keeping an eye on the dog.
If the dog stops approaching and seems to calm down, it is a positive indication that it may have just been curious. If the dog continues advancing, better be prepared to use defense tactics.
7. If the Dog Attacks, Protect Yourself
If the dog attacks, your first priority is to protect yourself. Here's how you can minimize injury:
Protect your face, neck, and vital body areas. If the dog bites, look to secure your hands, arms, and other exposed body parts.
Use whatever objects are nearby, such as bags, jackets, or sticks, to obstruct the dog's bite and create space from the dog
Try to keep your feet underneath you. Do everything in your power to not fall, as dogs fight much better at that level. If you hit the ground, curl up to protect your vital organs; protect your head and neck.
It's important to note that dog bites can be serious, but knowing how to protect yourself can reduce the extent of harm. Always seek medical attention after a dog bite, even if the injury appears minor.
8. Call Animal Control
If the dog showed signs of hostility or was out of control when interacting with you, report this immediately to your local animal control even if not bitten, as there are leash laws in place everywhere, and a dog chasing people is not a welcomed action. It is possible that the dog may not have an owner or needs to be held for rabies testing. Reporting the interaction will help protect others from the potential dog attack and ensure the dog is treated appropriately.
How can you prevent future encounters?
At Dog Bite Safety, we always recommend being proactive in preventing dog bite situations. If you're a dog owner, proper training, socialization, and responsible pet ownership can go a long way in ensuring that your dog behaves appropriately around others. Additionally, as a member of the community, it’s important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, especially when encountering unfamiliar dogs.
Learn More About Dog Bite Prevention
If you’re interested in learning more about dog bite prevention, Dog Bite Safety offers a range of training and safety programs designed to educate dog owners, Field workers, veterinarians, children, and the public. By understanding canine behavior, using proper techniques, and staying vigilant, we can all work together to reduce the risk of dog bites.
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