Nearly half of all households in the U.S. have a dog. Dogs are America’s most beloved pets. Dogs are loyal, loving and lots of fun. Nonetheless, people can forget that they are animals who exhibit different behaviors than humans.
Over 4 million people are bitten every year by dogs, and some of these bites result in severe injuries, and even fatalities in extreme cases. Thus, it can help to learn how to behave around a potentially aggressive dog, and this includes what not to do.
Outlined below are a few things to consider.
You can’t outrun a dog
When faced with any dangerous situation, including being faced with an aggressive dog, your instinct may be to run. This is only natural, but it’s important to fight this urge. The only way that running may benefit you is if you are very close to a secure gate and can get out before the dog reaches you. Other than that, you simply aren’t going to outrun a dog.
In fact, running could make the situation much worse. Dogs have prey instincts, and they are likely to chase anything that becomes prey in their eyes.
Avoid eye contact
Eye contact can be viewed as a threat by dogs. This isn’t a myth. Dogs will often lay down a challenge to one another by staring at each other. Eye contact can be viewed as aggression, and so can any form of loud shouting or screaming.
While it may seem counterintuitive, remaining calm is often the best approach when faced with an aggressive dog.
It’s important to be careful when approaching dogs you do not know. If you have been attacked, then the owner may be liable. Seek legal guidance to find out more about personal injury compensation.