8 Steps to 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.

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.

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.