Dangerous dogs

What should I do if I'm approached by an unfriendly looking dog?

There is no simple answer, nor set formula to solve the problem of unfriendly dogs. However, most dogs tend to conform to predictable rules of behaviour. This information may help you to avoid trouble:

  • Even friendly dogs will bark at you, as it is their job to defend their territory. Others will see you as a threat to themselves or their handler when out walking.
  • Talk to the dog in a firm but friendly voice and if it approaches in a friendly way - no snarl or hackles up - stand still to allow the dog to sniff you, keeping your hands clear until you feel confident.
  • As you get closer the dog, look at how it reacts to you. If it stays put or backs off, it probably regards you as a dominant intruder and will be too scared to attack. If it walks or runs towards you with its tail wagging in a low position it is probably friendly and unlikely to bite you. If it stiffens up, holds its tail high, snarls and stares at you then be on your guard. If it bares its teeth, it may be safer to go no further.
  • Never run past a strange dog, or walk quickly away from it. This may make it chase you and you could get bitten as a result.
  • Always walk or back away slowly, facing the dog as you do so - until you are sure you are safe.
  • Show no fear. A dog can detect fear. Keep calm, walk away slowly and speak firmly to the dog.
  • Don't stare. Staring is a threat - a dog may read it as a challenge and attack.
  • Do not allow children to approach dogs they do not know. You can never be sure. Ensure that children do not poke the dog's eyes or pull its hair etc. A dog only has one way to say "I've had enough", and that is to snarl or bite.

Please remember that dogs rarely attack, so don't be over anxious of every dog that you meet. Most are scared about getting into a fight but like to act tough on their own territory. Behave in a friendly and confident manner and you will help lessen their fear.

If you are worried about the behaviour of a particular dog, please contact the dog warden for advice.

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My dog has been attacked by another dog - what can be done about it?

Unless a member of the public was at risk, this is a civil matter between you and the owner of the other dog concerned.

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I've been bitten by a dog - what should I do?

It is important to obtain medical help if the bite is serious, especially if your anti tetanus inoculation is out of date (a booster is normally required every ten years).

Under the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act, an offence could be committed if a dog is dangerously out of control in a public place. Even if it is not in a public place, but in a place where the dog is permitted to be and it bites someone, or frightens someone, the owner could still be prosecuted. In this instance you should contact Woking Police.

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What is a dangerous dog?

The following dogs, and also cross-bred pit-bulls, are considered to be dangerous dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991:

  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Japanese Tosa
  • Dogo Argentino and
  • Fila Braziliero

It is illegal to possess such a dog without a certificate of exemption, which is granted once the dog is neutered, insured, and has a micro-chip implant. These dogs cannot be in a public place without being muzzled and being securely kept on a lead by a person who is not less than 16 years old.