Dealing with Street Dogs: Safety Measures You Must Know
Anant Singh | Sep 09, 2025, 10:45 IST
Group of Street Dogs Resting on a City Road
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Highlight of the story: While walking around town, often we see street dogs around us, playing, sleeping, walking and sometimes coming up and asking for pets. Most street dogs are simply trying to survive, but some can get territorial if they feel a threat to their life. Encounters with street dogs can escalate to levels which will be regretted later on but the only way to protect yourself from any kind of risk is to know how to react responsibly. Let’s discuss some ways with which your next walk will feel safer around street dogs rather than scared.
Stay Calm and Don’t Panic
Group of Street Dogs Resting Together
( Image credit : Unsplash )
The first and most important trait when coming in contact with a street dog is “Do Not Panic.” Dogs can sense fear which can trigger their nature of chasing and attacking. If and when a street dog approaches you, stay still, stay calm and avoid running away from them. Running encourages them to chase and think of you as a prey.
Maintain Eye Contact
Close-Up of a Street Dog
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Looking directly into the eyes of a street dog can feel like a challenge to them as they understand body language in a different way. Putting your backs in front of them may make them feel vulnerable and trigger threat instincts. The right way to look at them is to keep them in your peripheral vision and have your shoulder towards them, meaning you are aware but are not interested in confrontation.
Protect Your Proximity
Street Dog Resting Near a Shop
( Image credit : Unsplash )
While out on the walk, carry a walking stick or an umbrella which makes them think twice before coming near you. If a dog comes to close, put up a barrier, a bag, a bottle or even a stick. Dogs tend to avoid larger objects which they feel can overpower them.
Avoid Contact
Group of Stray Dogs in an Urban Area
( Image credit : Freepik )
Aggressive movements provoke an attack, whether it is a human or a dog. Do not try to kick, hit or raise your voice at a street dog. We have to respect their space just like we respect other humans, specially if they are asleep, or eating, or are caring for their pups. Dogs get highly protective and defensive when they are provoked in such situations.
Slowly Move Away
Sleeping Street Dog on Pavement
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Once you feel the dog has lost interest in you or your presence, move away slowly without making any sudden movements. Do not turn your back towards them while walking away, it might feel like a threat. Keep your pace steady and you will be walking away without any issues.
Travel Tips
Street Dogs Roaming at Night
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Prevention is better than cure, we have all heard this line at least once in our life. If you stay in an area which has a lot of street dogs, here are some preventive measure you can indulge in
Avoid isolated streets where dogs often gather in packs Walk in groups if possible to avoid dogs as they hesitate in coming in contact with crowdsCarry products like a water sprays or dog repellers which help in keeping the dogs away
What to Do When a Dog Attacks
Person Running from a Greyhound Dog in Park
( Image credit : Freepik )
Precaution is not always a solution to the problem. There is always a chance of mishaps, and if that happens here are a few tips
Use objects like bags, jackets or sticks as shields to prevent them from coming any more nearer. Protect the vital areas of your body like your head and neck by curling up or leaning against a wall.If bitten, stay put, let the dog release you because pushing the dog away will worsen the wound.
After an Incident
Doctor Bandaging Child's Arm in Clinic
( Image credit : Freepik )
Always treat a scratch or a bite like a medical emergency. Some dogs might not be vaccinated and that can be the cause of rabies and many other fatal diseases.
Wash the wound with soap and water to remove any germs on the surrounding area.Wipe off the area with an antiseptic to reduce the possibility of any disease.See a doctor as soon as possible so that they can test for rabies post the bite and give the necessary medicines.A wound by an unvaccinated dog can lead to serious life threatening diseases.
Stray Dogs Resting Near Railway Tracks
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Not all the street dogs are the same, some are just hungry, fearful and protective of their territory. Confronting them with compassion and affection while taking precautions creates the right balance. There are communities which are working day and night to vaccinate and sterilise street dogs which helps in calming them down and improving the coexistence of humans and animals.
Protecting yourself comes from staying calm, composed and thinking quickly. By respecting their space and nature, you keep yourself safe and secure. The key to true and absolute coexistence, a balanced combination of personal precaution and community responsibility is required.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What should I do if a street dog starts following me?
If a dog starts following you, stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Do not run. Slowly walk away without making eye contact or threatening gestures.How can I protect myself from a potential street dog attack?
Avoid provoking the dog, and try to put a barrier between you and the animal if it becomes aggressive.Is it safe to feed street dogs?
Feeding street dogs can create trust, but it's important to do so cautiously.What should I do if I get bitten by a street dog?
Wash the wound immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention right away and get a rabies vaccination if advised by a doctor.