Running away from a dangerous dog is the first instinct that many people have. If a dog barks at them or growls and approaches them in an aggressive manner, they want to get away from the threat as quickly as they can. So they turn and run.
The problem here is that dogs have something known as prey drive. Many of them love to chase, and their instincts tell them to do so. This is why dogs will chase small animals, cars, bicycles, skateboards or motorcycles. Their prey drive kicks in, and they act instinctively to chase something that they think is trying to evade them.
As such, if you turn and run, it may just mean that the dog is more likely to chase you down and bite you. So what should you do instead?
React slowly and calmly
Rather than running, screaming or panicking, try to stay calm and take slow and deliberate actions. Do not turn your back on the dog. Turn sideways to avoid eye contact. If possible, slowly begin backing away from the dog or try to put something else between you, such as a car that is parked on the side of the street.
Your instinct to get away from the dog is correct, but you need to do it in a subdued manner because the dog is going to feed off of your energy. If you stay calm, the odds are greater that the dog will also stay calm and allow you to move away from its territory, helping you avoid a bite.
This can be helpful advice, but there is nothing that guarantees you will not be bitten if you are approached by an aggressive dog – even if you do everything right. If that dog’s owner was negligent, you may be able to seek financial compensation.