What To Do If A Dog Attacks
A dog can approach us and try to bite us without our noticing. This happens in the park, on the bike or while walking in the neighborhood. In this article, we’ll tell you what to do when a dog attacks.
Tips on what to do when a dog attacks
Dogs can sometimes be dangerous without you being aware of it. Dog bites are more common than you think. That’s why we’d like to give you some advice on how best to behave when a dog attacks you.
1. Don’t panic
It is said that dogs are able to smell people’s fear and nervousness. Screaming, running, or getting excited can make the animal even more aggressive. It may mistake you for a source of danger, which triggers the impulse to bite you. So it is best to stay calm, take a deep breath, and wait for the dog to calm down (or for his owners to come to pick him up).
2. Don’t move
When a dog approaches with the obvious intention of attacking you, it is essential that you not make sudden movements. You shouldn’t scare or attack him, because doing so will only make it worse. The best thing you can do in this case is to stand still, keep your arms close to your body, and look away. Just pretend you’re a tree or an electric post.
3. Don’t run
Understand that the dog sees your escape as a threat. Because of this, he would chase you just like he does when chasing a bird or an insect. Remember that dogs are usually faster than humans and the dog can bite you.
4. Distract him
If you have an object in your hand or nearby, you can throw it away so the dog will run after it and find it. The moment the animal turns its attention to something else, you can withdraw. A bottle of water, your backpack or something to eat are very helpful.
5. Give him orders
Another possible tactic when a dog attacks is to confront the situation. To do this, you have to be very confident and tell him in an authoritative voice to stop, go away, or calm down. Use a dark, loud voice that sounds as imperative as possible. Don’t look him in the eye.
6. Only defend yourself when it is necessary
If your dog is clearly on the move from barking and growling to biting, then it’s time to fight back. Throw something not too heavy at him to get him off your side. Do not kick him or beat him. So you could hurt him and he hurt you too.
7. Use your advantage
Use all of your weight to subdue the dog so he can’t bite you. Take a dominant position.
8. Throw yourself on the floor
When a dog attacks, throwing yourself on the ground and making a “ball” can also be a good strategy. Protect your face, chest, and neck with your arms and hands, and your stomach with your legs and knees. Often that’s enough for the animal to leave you alone. Should he nevertheless decide to bite, at least he will not endanger your life.
9. Walk slowly
If you notice a dog approaching you with the intention of biting you, it is best to walk away from it very slowly. Just don’t move quickly.
10. Pay attention to the warning signs
If you already know that a dangerous dog lives in the neighborhood, just avoid them. Look out for signs that indicate that there is a vicious animal in the house and avoid going there. Talk to the owner if the animal has attacked you more than once.
If you cannot avoid an attack and are bitten by a dog, you should see the vet immediately. Don’t forget to check with the owners beforehand to see if the animal has had all of the vaccinations or is suffering from an illness.
