Loose
dogs

Many loose dogs are scared rather than aggressive. Stay calm, do not run, and put something between you and the dog. Legal, humane deterrents can help on walks.

Read the safety steps See what works
First step
Stay calm, do not run
Then
Back away slowly, sideways
Report
Dangerous dogs to local authorities
Our approach
Legal deterrents, no pepper spray

Know what you are dealing with

Warning signs

Stiff body, raised hackles, a fixed stare, growling.

Scared, not angry

A tucked tail and lowered head usually mean fear.

Do not run

Running can trigger a chase. Stand still and stay quiet.

If you are bitten, wash the wound, seek medical help and report the dog. Follow local advice on rabies where it applies.

Signs to look for

  • The same loose dog on your route, more than once.
  • Gaps in fences or gates around your home.
  • Dogs guarding a spot near your door or bins.
  • Children walking the same route alone.

The plan

  1. 1

    Stay calm

    Stand sideways, avoid staring, speak low and slow.

  2. 2

    Put something between you

    A bag, umbrella or bike between you and the dog.

  3. 3

    Carry a legal deterrent

    Citronella spray where allowed, or a loud whistle.

  4. 4

    Report it

    Tell local authorities about a dangerous dog.

Solutions for loose dogs

Dogs

Citronella spray

A legal deterrent for walks, where allowed.

Regulated in many countries. Read the label before you buy or use it.

Shoo does not sell these yet. They are standard products sold by other shops; follow the label on the one you buy.

Other animals

Garden visitors Snakes Birds All wildlife and dogs

What people worry about

A loose dog is running at me. Should I run?

No. Stay calm, stand sideways, avoid staring and put something between you and the dog, like a bag or umbrella.

An off-lead dog is charging my dog. What do I do?

Stay calm and step between them with a bag or umbrella. Only lift a small dog if you can do it safely.

Is dog spray legal where I live?

It depends on the country, and in some it counts as a weapon. Check with local police or the consumer authority, and never use pepper spray.

A dog bit me. What now?

Wash the wound with soap and running water and get medical help the same day, especially where rabies is a risk. Then report the dog to the local authority.

Who do I report a dangerous dog to?

Animal control, the council dog warden, the municipality or local police, depending on where you live. Keep a dated record of every incident.

Questions people ask

An off-lead dog is charging my dog. What do I do? Stay calm, do not run, and put something between the dogs. Read A dog bit me. What should I do now? Wash the bite with soap and running water for several minutes, see a doctor the same day, and report the dog. Read Is dog deterrent spray legal where I live? It depends on the country, and in some places even a citronella spray counts as a weapon. Read Who do I call about a dangerous or roaming dog? The official body for your area: usually animal control, the council dog warden, the municipality or the police. Read