If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, do not run, panic or make loud noises. Stay motionless, keeping the side of your body facing the dog while avoiding direct eye contact. Say things like “No” or “Go Home” in a deep, firm voice and slowly raise your hands to cover your neck while keeping your elbows in. Now wait for the dog to leave or begin to slowly back away.
If the dog charges you, it’s still important to stand as still as possible. As Dr Sofia Yin, DVM, MS, explains, dogs charge for one of two reasons: Either because they are scared and know offence is their best defence, or because you or another person in the vicinity did something that excited them and made them think they’re being rewarded. People’s pets can get caught in a self-reinforced feedback loop where they “play” a little too hard and don’t know any better. If you yell and move around frantically, the dog will think you’re playing along and won’t stop.
If the dog is clearly being aggressive, not playing (growling, snarling, barking), or obviously feral (dirty, no collar, not reacting to commands), Yin recommends you try and put something between you and the animal. A backpack, purse, jacket or even a shoe can make for a great shield. Look at the dogs’ body language so you can prepare to block attacks. Tension in the body, raised hackles (the hair along the dog’s back) and ears that are flat against their head are things to watch for.
One of the comments is helpful:
Clyff Guest
If you do have a stick, best to poke like a spear towards the dog, not swing. Aim (if at all possible) to thrust the stick down the dog's throat.
In NSW the law permits one to injure, destroy or seize an attacking dog; attacking is defined as rushing at, harassing, etc. Its in the Companion Animals Act. Unfortunately there's nothing you can do about the owner of an off leash dog except complain to your local council. The fine for off-leash is about $1000, from memory.
In NSW the law permits one to injure, destroy or seize an attacking dog; attacking is defined as rushing at, harassing, etc. Its in the Companion Animals Act. Unfortunately there's nothing you can do about the owner of an off leash dog except complain to your local council. The fine for off-leash is about $1000, from memory.
