How to defend against dog attack

Question
Hi Harry,

Thanks for your help.
I ask because I live near a bike/jogging track and there have been stories of joggers getting attacked by dogs (with earphones on they didnt hear barking).
If a dog physically attacks, is there anything I can do? I heard the only hope is to try and poke out an eye.

Cory
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Followup To

Question -
Hi

Can you tell me the best way to defend against a dog attack?

Thanks

Answer -
Your's is a sensible question but one that does not have an absolute guarantee attached to it.

However, I will tell you what I would do if I were is such a situation as I have been over the years.

1. If the dog begins to charge you, NEVER run away from him.
Stand your ground, face him, and do not move in any direction, trying to remain calm. He will probably stop his chase before he reaches you, or when he does reach you he will perhaps bark and possibly circle you. You continue to stand your ground and he will probably leave you. To holler at him and make moving motions with your arm and legs could represent a form of aggressivnes to him and you may be inviting an attack.

2. If you are approaching a dog and you can see at a distance he is looking directly at you, standing firm, the ears are down, the tail is lowered--and possibly the tip of the tail may be under his hind quarters, do NOT turn and run. Calmy cross the street and continue on. Should the dog continue to "fix" on you, calmly turn around and very slowly walk away.

3. If your approaching a dog and it is barking, cross over to the other side of the street. You may just be too close to his property and he is being protective.

Hopefully you will never experience an episode such as you questioned.

Harry  

Answer
Hi Cory,

Now that I understand the reason for your concern, I may be able to help you better.

First, NEVER try to poke at the dog with any stick or other item. The dog may take it as a sign of aggression on your part  and it easily could make him come after you with more intensity. Besides, can you imagine trying to balance yourself on a bike while your riding and poking a stick at a dog. You easily could lose your balance and then it's all over for you.

A dog chasing a bike is practically all the time NOT after the rider, but after the tires on the bike. Simply STOP if your on a bike, and I believe he will stop his charge. Don't abuse him in any way. He will lose interest. Then walk the bike away until it's safe to get back on.

If your jogging, simply STOP and do as I advised you earlier.

In a motorcycle class you are taught that when a dog chases you on the motorcycle, he is usually after the tires or the noise. You are taught to slow down when you see a dog approaching, stop if necessary, and--when it's safe, drive on.

Good luck. Don't worry too much about it or you will generate a fear that a dog will pick-up on.

Harry