What to Do When a Dog Attacks You

3 minutes

Last update: 06 June, 2018

Before you know it, a dog can sneak up on you and try to bite. This can happen when you’re at the park, riding a bike, or walking around the neighborhood. In this article you can find out how to act when a dog attacks you.

How to act when a dog attacks you- Tips

Sometimes, when you see it coming, dogs can become dangerous. Dog bites are more common than you might think. So, here are some tips about how to act when a dog attacks you:

1. Don’t panic

Dogs are known to be capable of smelling people’s fear and nervousness. If you scream, run or get agitated, the animal will become more aggressive and can attack because he believes you’re a threat. So, the best thing you can do is to remain still, take a deep breath, and let the canine calm down (or wait for the owners come and get him).

2. Don’t move

When a dog comes over looking like he’s going to attack, it’s important not to make any sudden movements. Don’t want to force him to leave or scare him, because that could make things worse. The best thing you can do is to remain still with your hands glued to your body, and look somewhere else. Act like you’re a tree or a telephone pole.

3. Don’t run away

Again, you have to understand that when a dogs sees you running away, he could take it as a threat. So, if you run away, he’ll chase after you like he does when he wants to catch a bird or insect. Remember, he might be faster than you, and bite you before you can even see him.

4. Distract him

If there’s anything in your hand or within walking distance, you can throw it so the dog could fetch it. Once the animal gets distracted by something else, he’ll leave. A water bottle, your backpack, a branch or some food can be very helpful.

5. Give commands

Another why to act when a dog attacks you is by taking control of the situation. To do this, you must be very confident and capable of showing him authority to make him to stop, leave or calm down. Show him who is boss by using a deep and strong voice. Don’t look at him in the eye.

6. Defend yourself only if necessary

If the dog goes from barking and growling to looking like he’s going to bite you, you must defend yourself. Throw something at him that’s not too heavy to get him away from you. Don’t kick or a punch him, because you may hurt him or he may retaliate by hurting you.

7. Gain the upper hand

Use all your weight to subdue the animal to prevent him from biting. Get into a better position by putting your leg on his back, for example.

8. Throw yourself to the ground

A good technique to use if a dog attacks you is by throwing yourself to the ground and curling up into a ball. Cover your face, chest and throat with your arms and hands, and your stomach with your legs and knees. In many cases, that’s enough for the animal to leave you alone. Or, it’s enough to prevent him from jeopardizing your life if he bites.

9. Walk slowly

If a dog comes toward you looking like he’s going to bite, the best thing you can do is to walk backwards away from him as slowly as possible. Don’t make any sudden movements.

10. Look for any warning signs

If you already know that there is a dangerous dog nearby, then do your best to avoid him. Look for any signs on houses that warn about having aggressive animals on the premises and avoid walking up to the door. Talk to the animal’s owner if he has attacked you more than once.

If you can’t avoid getting attacked and a dog bites you, go to the doctor’s office immediately. Don’t forget to speak to the dog’s owners, to find out if the pet has been vaccinated and if it has any diseases.