Essential Tips: What Not to Do During a Dog Attack

In the split second between a growl and a lunge, knowledge, not strength, decides the outcome.

You’re walking down the street, enjoying the fresh air, when suddenly, out of nowhere, a dog lunges toward you. The panic sets in, your heart races, and in those crucial moments, how you react could mean the difference between a scratch and a serious injury. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S., with 800,000 requiring medical attention.

But here’s the twist: most of these bites are preventable. The secret lies in understanding the language of dogs and knowing precisely what to do when things go wrong. Want to learn how to protect yourself and turn the tide in your favor when facing a dog attack? Read on, this could save your life.

Do not try to grab the collar or muzzle

Reaching for a dog’s collar or muzzle during an attack is a common cause of hand and arm injuries. As emergency physicians and veterinarians stress, don’t attempt to grab the collar unless you are trained to do so. Untrained attempts often lead to deeper, more dangerous puncture wounds.

Do not run away

Running triggers a dog’s natural chase instinct. This is one reason postal workers are often victims of dog attacks. The United States Postal Service reported 6,088 postal workers experienced dog bites in 2024, a rise from the previous year. Dogs, particularly when startled, are wired to chase moving targets. Stand still, avoid eye contact, and protect your core. “Be a tree” and resist the urge to run.

Do not get between the dog and a child or another dog with bare hands

Intervening between a dog and a child can result in serious injuries. Children under the age of 9 account for the majority of high-severity dog bites. Use objects, like a bike or a trash can, to intervene rather than just bare hands. Barehanded intervention often results in serious injuries to adults.

Do not scream or make a high-pitched noise

 ScienceDirect.com indicates that sudden, loud noises are among the most frequent triggers for fearful behaviors observed in high-pitched screams, especially from children, which often lead to more severe injuries. Children, who are more likely to panic, suffer the most severe injuries, particularly to the face and head.

Do not ignore warning signs before the attack

Dogs often give clear warning signals before an attack, such as a stiff body, tucked tail, lip licking, or growling. Children are particularly vulnerable to bites when they fail to recognize these signs. Teaching kids and adults alike to read canine body language can significantly reduce the risk of an attack.

Do not stare directly into the dog’s eyes

Petscare.com states that direct, prolonged eye contact is often seen by dogs as a challenge, threat, or dominance display, especially with unfamiliar dogs. Misinterpreted body language is a leading cause of dog attacks.

Do not skip medical care after a bite

Dog bite wounds are prone to infection, and ignoring medical care can lead to serious complications. Trauma specialists and public health agencies stress the importance of seeking medical treatment after a bite, even for seemingly minor injuries. Early treatment reduces the risk of infections and long-term damage.

Do not try to “dominate” the dog with physical force

Physically trying to overpower a dog can backfire, particularly with strong breeds. According to DogsBite.org, pit bull-type dogs are attributed with a disproportionately high percentage of severe and fatal attacks in the United States. Methods like hitting or pinning can escalate fear and aggression, leading to more severe bites.

Key takeaway

Knowing what not to do during a dog attack can make all the difference. Avoid running, screaming, or making aggressive eye contact. Never try to physically dominate or intervene without proper training. Always recognize warning signs and seek prompt medical care after a bite. Understanding these key points can reduce the severity of a bite and, in many cases, prevent one altogether.

Disclosure line: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.

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