Have you ever witnessed a dog fight? Whether it’s two dogs or more, it’s a distressing experience. For me, the adrenaline levels spike, I panic and yell loudly…none of which help to resolve the situation. My first instinct is to help my dog, but I know the reality of their strength and raw, instinctual power. It’s never a good idea to try and get in the middle of a dog fight, you will get hurt.
There are some techniques that may work to settle a dog fight to help alleviate any injury.
- Throw a bucket of water over the aggressor’s head. If a bucket of water is not available, reach for a dog’s water bowl or a bottle of water. The thought here is if they are struggling to breathe, the fighting will cease long enough to separate the dogs. You can also squirt them with a hose if it’s available.
- Throw a towel, blanket or jacket over the head of the dog. If it’s disoriented, you have time to retreat with the other dog.
- Separate the fight by putting something between them like a chair, umbrella (don’t poke them with it), a book or magazine, even the vacuum cleaner. You need to break their concentration.
- Try to get a long stick in the dog’s mouth for distraction.
- If you have help, grab the back hind legs from BOTH dogs and pull them apart – then RUN. BE CAREFUL because they can always turn and bite.
It is a big mistake to think your dog won’t fight. They do. Dogs fight because they feel insecure around other dogs.
Aggression is more prominent when dogs are leashed, so be sure to have control at all times. If your dog is off leash and a pet-parent walks toward you with his/her leashed dog, a scuffle may be imminent.
Have you had an experience with a dog fight? Share your experience with us.
Be safe out there!