7 Signs A Dog Is About To ATTACK! (And How To Avoid It!), by Tom Davis Dog Training on YouTube. 6 min 13 s.
- Video length
- 6 min 13 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Watch the whole dog, not just the tail. A wagging tail can still belong to a tense dog, so look at the body, head and weight shift together.
Look for a freeze. A dog that stops moving, goes still and locks a hard stare on you is deciding what to do next. Stop and give space.
Check the mouth and ears. A closed, tight mouth, lips pulled back, ears pinned flat or pushed far forward all mean the dog is uncomfortable.
Notice the tail set. A high, stiff, fast wag or a tail tucked hard under the body are both warning signs, not friendly ones.
Take a growl, snap or showing of teeth seriously. These are warnings, so back off instead of telling the dog off.
Stop and turn side-on. Keep your arms down, avoid direct eye contact, and do not reach out, scream or run.
Back away slowly and calmly. Put a fence, gate, car or bag between you and the dog, and keep moving until you are clear.
If a dog knocks you down, curl into a ball, protect your head and neck with your arms, and stay still and quiet until it leaves.
Teach children the same rules. Tell them never to hug, kiss or take food from a dog, and to stand still like a tree if a dog rushes at them.
Get a vet check and a qualified trainer or behaviourist if a dog in your home shows these signs. Pain and fear are common causes.
Tips and common mistakes
Never punish a growl, because you remove the warning and may get a bite with no notice.
A dog that is eating, sleeping, on a lead or guarding a toy should be left alone.
Ask the owner before you touch any dog, and let the dog come to you rather than reaching over its head.
Wash any bite with soap and water and get medical help the same day, even if the wound looks small.
Questions
Should I punish a dog for growling?
No. A growl is a warning that comes before a bite. If you stop the growl, the dog may skip the warning next time and bite without notice.
What should I do if a dog runs at me?
Stand still, turn side-on and stay quiet. Do not run or scream, as that can trigger a chase. Back away slowly once the dog slows down.
How do I greet an unfamiliar dog safely?
Ask the owner first, then let the dog sniff your closed hand and come to you. Keep your face away from the dog's head and stop if it turns away.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
