How to Approach an Unfamiliar Dog

Attacks by dogs in the United States result in an average of 12
deaths a year. Teach your child to be careful when approaching
an unfamiliar dog, and take the same precautions yourself.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog Bones
• Dog Food
• Dog Leashes
• Dog Toys
• Dog Treats
• Muzzles
• Dogs

1. Never approach a dog that is chained, tied, enclosed in a pen, behind a fence, or in a car or the bed of a pickup truck. Also don't touch or disturb a dog that appears to be sleeping or is unaware of your presence.

2. Recognize signs of aggressiveness such as barking, growling, snarling with teeth bared, holding the ears erect or tight against the head, holding the tail up stiffly, keeping the legs rigid, or bristling the hair. Keep your distance from a dog exhibiting any of these signs, even if the dog is wagging his tail. If the dog advances, move away slowly, in a sideways direction; do not turn and run. Say 'No' or 'Stay' in a firm voice.

3. To be on the safe side, only approach a dog that is with his owner and on a leash. Make sure the owner approves and invites you to approach and pet the dog.

4. Squat or crouch in front of the dog and allow him to approach you before attempting to pet him. Avoid staring directly into the dog's eyes, as this may be seen as a challenge.

5. Avoid reaching out to touch the dog, even if he appears to be friendly, as the dog may interpret this as a threat.

6. Do not tease or make any sudden movements or loud noises as you approach the dog. This may excite him and cause him to attack.

7. Let the dog keep any items that are in his possession'food, toys, chew bones and so on.

8. Offer a treat to the dog once contact is made, provided the owner says it's OK to do so.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid contact with unfamiliar dogs unless the dog is on a leash, and the handler or owner is present and invites you to approach and pet the dog.
• It is always best to ask permission to touch someone's dog.
• Avoid reaching out to touch any dog, even if it appears to be friendly, as the dog may interpret this as a threat.
• Remember that children comprise more than 60 percent of dog-bite victims, so always take extra precautions when children are present around puppies or dogs.

[hansty909]

on 1/29/2007 It gave me a bunch of choices that I could do

on 1/5/2006 In general, it's best not to approach an unknown dog straight forward. The direct stance can be seen as a threat to an aggressive or fearful dog. While avoiding eye contact, slowly move closer to the dog with a fist (no loose fingers to get bitten) extended and walking sideways. While it may look funny to people, it can be a lot more reassuring to the dogs.

on 11/22/2005 Most of the time people get bit because they are either too comfortable with a dog they do not know (thinking that they will not get bit), or they show the dog that they are afraid of them (staring or quivering at the dog). I have found that pretending that the dog is not bothering you can be effective. Even though you are not paying direct attention to the dog itself, remember to still be aware of your surroundings and where the dog is at all times.

on 11/22/2005 Once you have approached the dog, try this: Pet his ears, and gently massage inside of them. A little of the animal's scent will be on your fingers, and the next time you extend your hand, he'll be a little more friendly because you'll smell like him.

on 4/12/2008 Never approach a dog overhanded. Always carefully extend your hand underhanded.