How to prevent other dogs from attacking my dog while walking

Imagine you’re strolling through New York’s Central Park with your 2-year-old poodle mix, Leo, on a crisp Saturday morning. He’s trotting happily beside you, tail wagging, when suddenly a large, off-leash dog charges from across the lawn—ears pinned, teeth bared, growling low. Your heart races as Leo yelps and cowers. This isn’t just a scary moment—it’s a situation thousands of U.S. dog owners face yearly. Knowing how to act fast can protect both your pup and yourself.

Dogs attack for reasons rooted in instinct, not “meanness.” Most often, it’s fear (they feel cornered), territoriality (this “their” park spot), or resource guarding (they think your dog is a threat to… nothing, really—anxious brains misfire). You can spot warning signs before it escalates: a stiff body, raised hackles (the fur along their spine), direct eye contact, or a low, rumbling growl. A Los Angeles dog trainer once told me, “Dogs rarely go from zero to attack. They send 5–6 ‘please back off’ signals first—we just miss them.” That’s why staying alert matters: scanning ahead for loose dogs, especially in busy spots like Chicago’s lakefront trails, gives you time to react.

So what do you do when an aggressive dog charges? First, stay calm. Your panic revs up your dog—Leo will mirror your tense energy, making him more likely to react. Stand sideways (turning your back is a mistake—dogs see that as submission), use your body to block your pup, and firmly say “no” or “go home” in a deep, steady voice (yelling sounds like barking to them). If you have an umbrella, open it between the dogs—it creates a physical barrier. A Seattle golden retriever owner I know swears by carrying a small can of compressed air (not pepper spray, which can backfire in wind) to startle the dog without harm. Never try to grab the attacking dog’s collar—you could get bitten. Instead, distract them: toss a handful of treats (or even your water bottle) away from your dog to redirect their focus.

Once the moment passes, check both dogs for injuries. Even small nips need vet attention—rabies is rare in U.S. pets (thanks to mandatory vaccines, required by 4 months in states like California), but infections happen. Report loose aggressive dogs to local animal control (in NYC, call 311; in LA, 888-452-7381)—it’s not just for you, but for other walkers. This ties to bigger responsibilities: always keep your dog on a sturdy 6-foot leash (retractable leashes are illegal in some cities, like Denver, because they’re hard to control), and clean up their waste immediately—aggressive encounters are more likely in messy areas where dogs feel territorial.

Training plays a role too. Teach your dog a “come” or “behind” command—practice in quiet parks, rewarding with treats, so they’ll move behind you when stressed. Never punish your dog for reacting fearfully; praise them for staying calm, even a little. This aligns with U.S. and European animal welfare norms that reject scolding, focusing instead on building trust. In apartment communities, stick to designated dog areas and keep distance from other dogs unless their owner signals it’s okay—respecting space prevents many conflicts.