Keeping your pet safe starts with understanding how dogs communicate and interact.
Dogs rarely act without warning. Before biting or reacting, they often send signals that something is wrong. Learning to recognize these signs early gives you the chance to step in and prevent a dangerous situation. Watch for:
- Stiff body posture
- Raised hackles (hair standing up along the back)
- Intense staring
- Growling
- Lip licking or yawning when stressed
Preventing Dog Fights
The best way to prevent a dog fight is to stay one step ahead!
- Always supervise play between dogs.
- Introduce dogs slowly in neutral environments, keeping both on leashes during the first meeting.
- Keep a close eye on body language and be ready to calmly separate dogs if tension starts to build.
- If your dog tends to be anxious or reactive, it’s best to avoid crowded dog parks where interactions can quickly become overwhelming.
Safe Dog-to-Human Interactions
- Always respect a dog’s personal space and avoid sudden movements around unfamiliar dogs.
- Watch for stress signals like turning away or backing up. These are a dog’s way of saying they need more space.
- Allow dogs to approach new people at their own pace rather than forcing interaction.
- Never leave children unsupervised with dogs, even familiar ones.
Breaking Up Dog Fights Safely
If a fight does break out, never place your hands between fighting dogs. Instead, use a loud noise to distract them, or reach for water, an animal deterrent spray, or a barrier object to safely separate them.
Download PDF — Understanding Dog Behavior and Safety (PDF download)