How to Be Safe From Dogs When Walking

Walking is excellent exercise. When walking outdoors, it is possible to encounter dogs, both on leash and off leash. Some dogs escape their yards and are running free through the neighborhood; others might walk on a leash but can still pose a threat to walkers on the sidewalk. There are simple ways to be safe from dogs when walking outdoors for exercise or pleasure.

Things You'll Need

• Closed-toe walking shoes
• Walking stick
• Spray bottle

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Be alert when you're walking.

  Pay attention. When out for a walk, pay attention to your surroundings so you can see a dog heading in your direction. Talking on the phone or listening to music distracts you from focusing on your surroundings, so minimize your distractions as much as possible.

• 2

  Look around you.

  Look behind you. Being safe means actively looking around you at all times so you are not caught unaware by an approaching dog on or off leash coming up behind you.

• 3

  Cross the street when a dog is approaching.

  Cross the street. Do not be afraid or embarrassed to cross the street to avoid an approaching dog.

• 4

  Carry a water bottle, a spray bottle or a walking stick for protection.

  Carry a walking stick or spray bottle. Ideally, you will not need to use either of these, but it is important to have protection in the event you need it. A walking stick can be used to swat or poke at a dog to keep it at a distance. A spray bottle filled with water can be sprayed in a dog's face to startle it.

• 5

  Closed-toe shoes are safer when walking near dogs.

  Wear closed-toe shoes. In the event of an attack, you will need to kick the dog below the chin in the chest area to protect yourself. Closed-toe shoes will help you avoid injury to feet and toes and also serve as good running shoes to avoid danger.