How to Protect Yourself from a Stray Dog

Co-authored by Shawn Riley

Last Updated: March 13, 2023

When encountering an unknown dog without an owner (a "stray"), many people's first instinct is fear. However, with a little knowledge, you can feel more secure and know what to do if this happens, to you.

Steps

1
Gauge the dog's demeanor. Is it aggressive or afraid? Signs of aggression include: baring teeth, lifted tail, raised ears and hackles (the fur behind the neck, in many large breeds the hackles are very easy to see when they are lifted). Signs of fear include tucking the tail, laid back ears and also snarling or barking. Barking is a sure sign that the dog doesn't want you any closer than you already are.^{[1]
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Do not be misled by breed stereotypes. Look for body language to understand what the dog is trying to convey. A dog's behavior is determined more by its training (or lack thereof) than its genetics.^{[2]
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3
Most dogs, big and small, are not aggressive and are likely to be afraid of you. The most common situation is that a dog is lost, scared, and doesn't trust you. Even if they look frightening, their first instinct will be to repel you and get away.
4
For scared dogs, back away slowly until the dog is at ease. Do not try to command them. Note your location and, if the dog is unknown to you, call animal control immediately. If you know who the dog belongs to, of course, call them first!^{[3]
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For an aggressive dog, the first priority should be to protect yourself. Do not run, as the dog will catch you and will be encouraged to bite. Many dogs instinctively know how to "take down" a runner, and the last place you want to be is on the ground. Search for something to climb onto and call for help.^{[4]
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If there is nothing that can safely remove you from an aggressive dog, you should use your arm to deflect or absorb any bites. Do not aggravate an aggressive dog by shouting at it or staring into its eyes. Eye contact is aggressive and will likely spur an attack.
7
Very few dogs will actually bite a human being, if unprovoked. Stay calm and try to keep your stance tall and confident. Walk away, if you aren't being chased, and call animal control at the first opportunity. Dogs are pack animals. When they are alone, they are not usually looking for confrontation.^{[5]
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Expert Q&A

Question

How do you approach a stray dog without scaring it?

Shawn Riley
Canine Trainer & Behaviorist
Shawn Riley is a Canine Trainer & Behaviorist based in Tualatin, Oregon. With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Shawn has appeared on several local TV shows and was recruited by National Geographic as the on-set Behavioral Advisor for a national video series called “My Dog Ate What?”

Shawn Riley

Canine Trainer & Behaviorist

Expert Answer

You should never approach a stray dog. If the dog tries to approach you, make a sharp lunge towards them while saying "No, go away!" in a loud voice. That's usually enough to make most dogs go "Okay, I don't want any part of this," and they'll avoid you.
Question

What happens if a dog bites me, and I do not know what to do?

Community Answer

It depends on the bite, whether it's serious or not. Contact a doctor immediately as it could be dangerous if not treated.
Question

Should I yell at the dog if it's a known friendly dog?

Community Answer

Why would you yell at a dog you know is friendly? If you don't want to interact with the dog, just walk away; it will most likely leave you alone.

Warnings

If you are bitten, go to a doctor as soon as possible and get a rabies vaccine.

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If a dog ever attacks you, it is best to not let it knock you down. Stand your ground, and shield yourself. Keep the dog in front of you, and keep anything between you and the dog.

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If a dog knocks you to the ground, you should curl into a ball and cover your head and neck with your arms. Some dogs may lose interest if you "play dead."^{[6]
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Report any sighting of stray or loose dogs in your region to avoid other people or animals from getting hurt in the future.

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