What to do if a stranger's dog comes over? - briefly
If you encounter a stranger's dog, remain calm and still. Avoid direct eye contact and sudden movements, which can be perceived as threatening by the dog.
What to do if a stranger's dog comes over? - in detail
When encountering a strange dog that approaches you, it is essential to remain calm and composed to ensure the safety of both yourself and the animal. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
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Stay Calm: Dogs can sense fear and anxiety, which may provoke them to become aggressive. Maintain a relaxed posture and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises.
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Avoid Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be interpreted as a threat by the dog. Instead, look away or gaze at the side of the dog's body to show that you are not a threat.
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Do Not Run: Running may trigger the dog's natural instinct to chase. Stand still and allow the dog to sniff you if it approaches. Remain motionless until the dog moves on.
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Keep Your Hands at Your Sides: Raising your hands or waving them around can be seen as a threatening gesture by the dog. Keep your hands relaxed and by your sides.
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Speak Calmly: If the dog is friendly, speak in a soft, calm voice. Avoid shouting or making sudden noises that could startle the animal.
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Let the Dog Sniff You: If the dog approaches you to sniff, allow it to do so. This is the dog's way of gathering information about you. Remain still and let the dog investigate.
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Back Away Slowly: If the dog appears aggressive or you feel uncomfortable, slowly back away while keeping your body turned sideways to avoid appearing threatening. Do not turn your back on the dog.
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Seek Shelter: If possible, enter a nearby building or car to put a barrier between you and the dog. Close any doors or windows that the dog could potentially enter through.
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Contact Animal Control: If the dog is acting aggressively or you feel genuinely threatened, do not hesitate to call local animal control services for assistance. They are trained to handle such situations safely.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of a negative interaction with a strange dog and ensure your safety as well as that of the animal.