|  | Public Health Safety | Emergency Preparedness

When a Mastiff Bites, How Do You Get Them to Release?

The mastiff is known for being docile and well-natured, but is used as a guard dog for good reason. If a mastiff bites and holds a person, a simple technique can be used to take the dog off the bite.

  1. Approach

    • If you are the person being bitten, don't pull away. Remain as calm as possible and talk to the dog in an even, forceful voice. If someone else is being bitten, do not yell or rush toward the dog. Approach confidently at a walking pace.

    Collar Technique

    • If possible, get the person being bitten to stand up. Find the live ring on the dog's collar and pull upward to tighten the collar around the dog's neck. Try to pull so hard as to lift the dog's front feet off of the ground. Use the out command if you know it, or simply say, "No," in a forceful tone.

    Gag and Pinch

    • At the same time, push the dog's mouth into whatever it is biting to make it gag. If the dog still has not released, stiffen the arm you're using to pull up on the collar and, with your free hand, quickly pinch the dog between its rear leg and stomach, then move your hand out of the way.

    After Release

    • Once the dog releases, reduce the upward force on the collar to allow the dog to breathe.

Emergency Preparedness - Related Articles