It’s the last thing you want to think about, but there’s always a chance that you and your dog will get attacked by another dog. The only thing to do is to be prepared if this situation were to ever happen.
Here’s what to do if your dog gets attacked on a walk:
Why & Signs
Before I go over what to do, I’ll talk about why dogs attack other dogs, as well as signs that an attack is coming.
Dogs will typically attack another dog, or even a person, because of territorial behavior or they’re scared of the unfamiliar dog or person.
Signs can include:
- Growling
- Mean barking
- The body tenses up
- The tail will be still and slightly upright
- Teeth may be showing
- Hair is stood up
- It also may look like they’re about to jump at you dog
What to do
A leashed dog
If you meet another owner and a dog, don’t get too comfortable. Watch both dogs closely for any of the above signs. If you see even one of these signs, slowly back away with your dog. Since the other owner may not notice what’s happening, communicate with them.
If you aren’t quick enough to respond, and the other dog gets a hold of your dog, do NOT attempt to pull your dog away. This will make things worse. Instead loosen your dogs leash, or drop it. Communicate to the other owner not pull on their dog either.
At this point, it’s time to take action. Either communicate with the other owner, or do it yourself. If the other dog has gotten a hold of your dog, grab that dog’s collar and pull straight up. This will start to choke the dog, and the dog should let go of your dog. Don’t pull them towards you or to the side, as this can make things worse. The dog will think they’re playing a game of tug of war, and will bite down harder.
If the dog doesn’t have a collar, use another leash and wrap it once around the dog’s neck. Then pull up.
If your dog gets injured, it’s best to exchange information with the owner and then take your dog to the vet.
Note: Carry another leash, preferably a rope style leash. Also consider having a dog whistle with you on your walks. When blown it can be uncomfortable for dogs at a close distance. This may also help with separating a dog fight.
An unleashed dog
You most likely won’t have any immediate help with an unleashed dog, as it most likely doesn’t have an owner.
If the dog gets a hold of your dog, do what I suggested above. And as I noted above, it’s a good idea to carry a dog whistle and an extra leash. If you use the leash to get the dog off yours, then try calling out for help or contacting animal control since you obviously can’t just let this dog go.
Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible for their injuries and potential diseases they could have contracted.
For other methods on your dog being attacked, talk to your vet or a professional trainer.