How to react to a loose dog

#Middlebury

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: This weekend while hiking with my daughter on a public trail, a big dog ran straight up to us and started barking fiercely. We were frightened and didn’t know what to do, so we stood still until the dog ran off. What should we have done instead? – Paul in Lynn, Massachusetts

DEAR PAUL: You and your daughter did the right thing by standing still when the dog approached. Running away or waving your arms may further excite a dog and incite an attack.

Preventive Vet has an excellent post detailing what to do when approached by a strange dog, including common body language that can help you interpret whether the dog is relaxed, alert or feeling threatened (go to www.preventivevet.com and search for “off-leash dog”).

Here are additional steps to take when approached:

1. Stay calm and observe the dog’s body language and behavior as it approaches.
2. Place your walking stick in front of you, between you and the dog.
3. If it comes close, put out a hand and say “Go home!” or “Sit!”
4. Startle a dog that doesn’t leave: Bang your stick against the ground (don’t wave or swing it) and yell “Go home!”

Another recommendation is to carry dog treats on walks. If a loose dog approaches and won’t leave, toss a treat away from you (but in their line of sight) and when they go to eat it, calmly depart the area.

Some owners will take issue with the idea of strangers tossing treats at their dog. But letting their dogs run off leash and out of view is risky to the dog and to other people, and just plain irresponsible. Ideally, dogs should be trained to stay within sight of their owners and well socialized to other humans; otherwise, they need to be on a leash.

Send your comments, questions or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.

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