How to Avoid Being Attacked by Dogs

When I was a little girl, my brothers used to tell me to squat down to grab an invisible stone and hold up my fist whenever I’m being confronted by an angry dog. If the dog attempt to move towards me, I should throw that invisible stone with all my strength and yell my lungs off at him.

Fortunately for me, there were hardly any spray dogs roaming near our playground. I can’t image what would become of me if I had acted upon their advice when confronted by an angry and aggressive dog.

As I grew up and study more on dogs’ behavior, I realized those above tips are counteracting of avoiding attack by dogs. As a matter of fact, they were open invitation for dogs to pursuit their attack.

Today I still see young children doing that to dogs. Their parents swear by this method as they claim that it works like a charm. That’s because they can’t differentiate a tame dog from an aggressive one. They do it just to get the dog out of their way! Sound ridiculous, but it’s true. Situation would be a whole lot different if the dog took up the kid’s challenge instead of walking away. Thanks to their lucky star, for now.

Before implementing any of the tips below, remember this important rule.

Never Challenge A Dog In Question. Since we don’t know the background (temperament) of the dog, we have to assume he is capable to kill any prey. After all, all dogs are once wolves. Their canine can easily puncture your flesh especially they have been eating raw diet since birth. Drop your ego. Your life is more valuable than your ego. You may be 6 foot 2 with a body built like Arnold Schwarzenegger (then), don’t take that challenge. You are better off showing your physique to your spouse than any dog.

Tips to Avoid Being Attacked by Dogs

• Don’t run, move or scream. Under no circumstances should you turn and run or scream. Running and screaming will trigger a pursuit response followed by an attempt to bring the fleeing creature (you) down.
• Don’t stare directly at an angry dog. Staring will provoke the dog, which sending him signal of “What you starring at?”
• Don’t put your face near his nor try to coax him to calm down. Though obvious, but some thought they might have a way to charm the dog. Whether you are Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt, dogs don’t know any different from regular faces. Save your charm for your next promotion.
• Drop it. If you’re holding any grocery bags or briefcase, drop them down slowly by your sides. Dogs will perceive any object you are holding as weapons to attack them.
• Don’t hold fist. Once you release your belongings, do not hold up any fist. Let your fingers hang loose, palms facing inward by your sides. To a dog, a fist indicates there is something in your palm and could be of danger to him.
• Look, down and away. Look at him briefly (with very soft look) and then look down and away. Blink slowly. Hold that direction for a couple seconds. Then look at him again, look down and look away. Blink slowly. These calming signals are very important because they show the dog that you are not a threat.
• Be submissive. Your submission will be the only sign the dog needs to defuse his anger, and he may walk away. He probably thinks that you aren’t worth the trouble to put up a fight with, since you already declare defeat.
• Move backwards. If he remains still, this is your opportunity to take a few really slow steps backward. If the dog doesn’t move towards you, continue slowly moving backward and gradually turn your body sideway. If the dog starts to follow you, turn slowly to face him, avoid direct harsh eye contact, look down and blink slowly to reinforce the message that you really don’t want any trouble. Then take a few more steps backward, gradually turn your body sideway again and slowly walk away. Always avoid your gaze.

As to why would a dog suddenly turn against human, nobody can pinpoint the flaws nor answer with absolute certainty. It’s ridiculous to walk around with fear of being attacked, however we can educate others especially children (since they are the highest victims) to recognize aggressive dogs and appropriate ways to prevent being attacked.