Woah Dog fight

Play can lead to Pray in an Instant. Mouthing and biting may simply be rough play but sometimes this can escalate to a heated scuffle which (more times than not) is over in seconds.  In case you find yourself witnessing a full blown dog fight here are a few tips for a plan of action.

Loud noise can distract.  Shout, clap hands or bang something.

If handy – Citronella spray, water spray, hose or empty a water bowl over dogs.

Throwing a blanket or tarp over dogs can stop a fight once they can’t see each other.

Attempting to grab a dogs collar mid-fight is dangerous as it puts your hand very close to the action and even the feeling of being grabbed at the collar may cause a dog to bite you (redirected aggression) whilst in such a heightened state.  Even a dog not showing any previous aggression is capable of this.

If you must use physical force, 2 adults can get behind each dog.  Grasp by the top of the dogs back legs.  Lifting his rump like a wheelbarrow means only his front legs are on the ground.  Now move backwards.  Some experts suggest (if you’re game) to poke your finger into the dog bottom to distract & diffuse.

Fights can flare up again quickly, so move the dogs to separate areas.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)