Is there a better way to stop an attacking dog than sticking your arm in his mouth?

Question

One of the previous questioners said the response where you stick your forearm in the dog's mouth to make it gag was the way to stop a dog! There's got to be a better way -- I found picking up a rock or stick helps. Any other ideas? I'm a jogger and I hate when a dog comes tearing after you while the owner says, "Don't worry, he's very gentle!"

Answer 1

I NEVER let my dogs misbehave or act a fool when I take them out in public, even though they are very gentle. People don't like to be bothered with other peoples animals!

You should carry mace with you in case of a vicious animal. Have you tried sound diversion? You could try a whistle. Both of those items are small and it shouldn't effect your jogging. If you see someone walking their dog, probably the best way to avoid the dog is jog way around them. I know you shouldn't have to do that, but many owners are a bit inconsiderate. Hope this helps! ☺

Answer 2

I yell " Call your dog now !!! or I will hurt it !!!"

You can use a rape whistle (extremely loud)
pepper spray
bear spray
boat horn
stick

One reason picking up a rock or a stick helps is that YOUR body language changes. You've got a way to defend yourself and your whole attitude is different.

So some dogs can be stopped by facing them and standing tall and putting a hand up quickly and firmly. If they are too close I'd go for the spray.

I would try to avoid sticking an arm in any dog's mouth, but as a last resort it is best to protect your head and neck however you can.

Report any loose dogs ! They are a hazard no one should have to deal with.

Answer 3

If a dog comes charging at you and you can't get a barrier between you (a fence or on top of a car, for instance), it often works to just turn away a bit, stand still, and remain calm. Dogs usually just threaten and will stop doing so when they see that you are not a threat to them.

If that doesn't stop the dog, there's a product called Direct Stop that works well. It is citronella oil. Unlike pepper spray, it won't hurt you if you happen to get some blowback.

If the dog actually does attack, physical force is probably needed. Hit, kick, etc. Don't try to pull yourself out of the dog's mouth; this will only make him clamp down harder. Fortunately, this is going to be a rare situation.

Answer 4

I have read all the answers and I'm afraid that I disagree with all of them as being impractical. Nobody goes around "armed and dangerous" just in case they are going to be attacked by a dog!.. Kalashnikov indeed! Boat Horn!!!
If it is INEVITABLE that you are going to be attacked I would, and I have (been attacked) offered my forearm to the dog. I consider this the least important part of my body and it heals quickly anyway

Answer 5

my grandma takes a stick with her when she goes walking because she got bitten by a dog before and that's why she carries a stick now. the best thing i would do is to call animal control and let them know about that dog and they can pick it up and make the owner pay a fine for letting the dog run loose. there are leash laws in every state, guaranteed, and people should be made to follow them if they are going to have an animal(s).

Answer 6

Dog whistle around your neck is one way. You could get your own dog. The forearm in the mouth is a risky move and probably wouldnt work on most dogs, unless they jumped right at you.

Answer 7

When I go out on walks with my dog I got charged at 5 times and bit 2 times. But when I got some pepper spray it hasn't happened! (maybe they know???) but if the dogs do attack i can just pepperspray/tear gas them!

Wow that sounded really commercially!!! Oh well... hope this works

Answer 8

Stick your arm in it's mouth? Surely if it's attacking that's not a good idea. I thought you were supposed to throw a bucket of cold water on them - however that's quite difficult if you're jogging...
I feel i should apologize on behalf of others as a dog owner myself, but genuinely my dog just wants to run along with you not attack you, she thinks it's a game...also, if you were to pick up a stick she'd expect you to throw it for her! Although that would distract her from running after you...

Answer 9

I have read that thrusting your hand or arm down their throat will cause them to choke and let go of you. Also, a knee or fist to the neck will usually hinder an attack.

Answer 10

I have a friend who works for the Gas Company. They carry pepperspray...good on dogs and human predators!