The main thing is that you need to convey a sense of calm. Here's how to do it right.
VOICE
DON'T: A high-pitched, shrieking voice broadcasts fear and may activate the dog's fight instinct.
DO: Use a deep, firm voice to convey a sense of calm.
POSITION
DON'T: Turn your back and run—that'll make you look like prey, which may encourage a chase.
DO: Stand tall, facing the dog and slowly, calmly back away.
EYES
DON'T: Direct eye contact can seem aggressive to a dog, further encouraging a physical encounter.
DO: Watch the dog out of the corner of your eye without making direct eye contact.
BODY LANGUAGE
DON'T: Cowering may activate a prey response, while a combative position may instigate a fight.
DO: Stay relaxed, and use an upright posture to give a sense of authority.
TIP: LAST SHOT
If a scary dog really comes at you, spray it with water if you have a bottle.
So far i have never had a problem with dogs while out running , however Kids get in my way all the time and force me off foothpaths etc also running past a group of youths is a nightmare as you get abuse and more often than not something flung at you .....Dogs are fine they are only being dogs .
ReplyDeleteAll the above tips are good but the bottom line is if a dog ATTACKS you on a public road the dog's owner is responsible for the dog's actions.
ReplyDeleteI do a lot of running on country roads and as happened in the past when a dog comes out from a property and ATTACKS you as you are running on the road, I have come back later and informed the owner of what happened.The owner usualy has a positave response and that would be the end of it.But if it occurred again (and it has) I report it to the local Garda station.They will call out and thave a word with the owner.
I never have a problem with the dog after that.Remember the owner of a dog is legally bound to be in control of it's dog on all public places.
Please take the photo of the german shepard down and replace it with a small yappy dog! These are always the worst ones! I run with my german shep (on the lead!) and it is ALWAYS the small dogs that chase and nip at our heels.
ReplyDeleteI have only been nipped on the ankle once by a small terrier while running,all because i keep running with my back to this dog.Now I always face any dog now big or small and just slowly pass them on my journey.
ReplyDelete