How to Handle a Stray Dog

In the warm months, dogs are left out in yards much more frequently than in the colder months, so it's more likely for someone during the spring or summer to run into a stray dog while outside. Whether the dog is in your yard, wandering the street, or just laying around, it's important to know what to do to handle a stray dog.

Dogs can be frighteningly dangerous and they can also be very friendly and fun. You won't know what type of dog you're going to greet when walking up to one until you are right up on the dog. Sadly, sometimes, dogs change when a person gets close to them, so even watching dogs from a distance to see their disposition doesn't do much good in knowing how to handle a stray dog.

Stand Still When Meeting a Stray Dog

Dogs, whether being playful or being aggressive, will be triggered to jump or run and even attack when you move quickly. The best bet is to stand very still when meeting a stray dog and letting him or her smell you until they know you are safe to them. That's the key: dogs don't think you're safe. That's why they might be aggressive. Usually, they are just as afraid of you or more afraid of you than you are of them.

Let Dogs Sniff Your Hand?

Unless you want your hand bitten, don't stick your hand out to let a dog sniff you. This is a commonly told tactic to get a dog to like you. While this might work with a dog who is with his or her owner and is properly socialized, it can be very dangerous when meeting a stray dog without his owner. Sticking your hand out is just as likely to get your hand bitten as it is to get it sniffed and approved.

If you'll stand very still with your hands down at your side when a stray dog approaches you, the dog will likely sniff your hands. Don't stick them out toward him, as this could be taken as an aggressive sign. Just let the dog sniff you.

Once his interest in you is satisfied, he will then put his tail down, put his head down, or start to walk away, something to let you know that it's okay. Then you can reach your hand down to pet the dog, but not before he's checked you out.

Don't Run from a Stray Dog

Dogs who aren't aggressive will chase someone who runs, because they want to play. He or she might accidentally knock you down or jump up on you and appear aggressive even if they are not. If they are aggressive, they will chase you if you run, because running is a sign to a dog that triggers the instinct to chase. Walk away slowly and carefully, without turning your back on the dog, and do not run, even when you think you're far enough away from the dog to do so. They will chase from clear across the street.

Don't Think Small Dogs Are Safe

Sometimes, small dogs are more dangerous than big ones. Smaller dogs, like Maltese, Poodles, Pomeranians, etc., are accustomed to being carried by the owners and can be very owner-centric. These dogs are usually held and carried by their owners and are very one-person protective. They might seem small, but trying to pick one up can lead to scratches and nasty bites.

Dogs aren't automatically dangerous, but when they are outside, away from home, scared, hungry or have been mistreated, they can be deadly. It's better to protect yourself and your family than it is to try to rescue a stray dog that might be dangerous. Once you're safe and your family is safe, call your local animal control to come and take care of the stray. If he belongs to someone, they will find a way to get the stray dog back home.

If your community doesn't have a local animal shelter, call the local police or sheriff's department, as they handle dangerous stray dog calls or return dogs back to their owners safely.