I have a boxer mix who REALLY dislikes when off leash dogs come running up to greet her. I love to take her hiking (on leash) with me but the off leash dogs are a constant source of stress. This past weekend, a man had 4 large off leash dogs with him, 2 of which came running up at full speed and surrounded her to sniff. She stiffened immediately and began to growl, bare teeth and lunge at the other dogs. One dog began to growl back but fortunately the owner was able to eventually get control over them.
This is not the first time this has happened and my dog has a history of getting into actual dog fights (resource guarding related) so I know what she is capable of.
I am also aware that people are not going to stop letting their dogs off leash, so I have to find a way to safely take her on hikes or I will be forced to leave her at home which I would hate to do.
I've done some research and below are options I am considering. I would like to know if anyone has successfully used any of these to prevent an off leash dog from approaching, or if you have any other advice for me.
Muzzle - will prevent her from biting, but I'm worried she will still growl and then won't be able to defend herself if other dog attacks
Umbrella- open as dog runs up and use as barrier
Citronella Sprayshield - spray at oncoming dog to make them retreat
Pepper spray - would work but could backfire if windy and make owner of other dog very angry
Air horn- should surprise/scare oncoming dog but could also freak out my own dog
Throwing treats to distract - not sure how many dogs this would actually work on
Yell STOP!!!! really loud and try to stand in between my dog and the other dog
Thanks everyone!
This is not the first time this has happened and my dog has a history of getting into actual dog fights (resource guarding related) so I know what she is capable of.
I am also aware that people are not going to stop letting their dogs off leash, so I have to find a way to safely take her on hikes or I will be forced to leave her at home which I would hate to do.
I've done some research and below are options I am considering. I would like to know if anyone has successfully used any of these to prevent an off leash dog from approaching, or if you have any other advice for me.
Muzzle - will prevent her from biting, but I'm worried she will still growl and then won't be able to defend herself if other dog attacks
Umbrella- open as dog runs up and use as barrier
Citronella Sprayshield - spray at oncoming dog to make them retreat
Pepper spray - would work but could backfire if windy and make owner of other dog very angry
Air horn- should surprise/scare oncoming dog but could also freak out my own dog
Throwing treats to distract - not sure how many dogs this would actually work on
Yell STOP!!!! really loud and try to stand in between my dog and the other dog
Thanks everyone!