What to Do If You’re Attacked by a Dog

Every day, we run the risk of encountering stray dogs while out walking or running. Some of these dogs can sometimes display unpredictable behavior and be extremely aggressive and unfriendly. Thus, it’s better to be safe and know what measures to take when you run into such a situation.

We at Bright Side have collected the recommendations of experts and cynologists on how to keep yourself safe and to prevent dog bites.

It’s strongly believed that dogs and other animals do sense human fear. However, you can hardly keep calm when an aggressive dog is growling and barking at you. If you scream, wave your arms, or run away, you can trigger the dog’s prey instinct and provoke him to attack.

If you happen to encounter a dog during your run, slow down to a walk. Turn and walk in the opposite direction of the dog, but keep watching him out of the corner of your eye.

Moreover, if you stand completely still with your arms stretched along the sides of your body, the dog will lose interest in you and walk away.

Direct eye contact may intensify a dog’s aggressive behavior. Staring a dog in the eyes can be interpreted as a threat by dogs and become a reason for attack. Keep the dog in sight, but avoid direct eye contact with him. This will signal to the dog that you are not a threat, and he will probably turn away and go.

Actually, any object at hand can be of help. Give him something to chew, such as your shoe, a bottle, or your backpack. This may distract the dog for a while and give you time to escape.

If the dog continues to behave aggressively, face him — avoiding direct eye contact — and command him to leave. Make sure to use a strong and confident, but not a high-pitched, commanding voice. The most effective commands are “No“ and ”Back away" in a firm tone. The dog will become frightened and leave.