How to avoid being attacked by a dog in NZ

In New Zealand, there are an estimated 1.5 million dogs. That’s one dog for every four people!

While the vast majority of these dogs are friendly, there are still some that may pose a threat to your safety. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on how to avoid being attacked by a dog in New Zealand.

Dogs typically become aggressive when they feel threatened or are protecting something that they see as valuable. If you can avoid making a dog feel threatened, you’ll be much less likely to be attacked.

Here are some specific things you can do to avoid being attacked by a dog:

1. Don’t approach a dog that you don’t know

If you see a dog that you don’t know, resist the urge to approach it. Even if the dog looks friendly, it’s best to err on the side of caution. The dog may be friendly, but its owner may not want you to approach.

2. Don’t run past a dog

Dogs are natural predators and they may instinctually chase after someone who is running. If you must run past a dog, try to do so quickly and without making too much noise.

3. Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies

Dogs can be very protective of their food and their young. If you come across a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies, it’s best to just leave it alone.

4. Don’t tease a dog

Dogs don’t like to be teased and it can make them angry. If you’re playing with a dog, be sure to do so in a way that is gentle and non-threatening.

5. Don’t put your hand near a dog’s face

A dog may bite if you put your hand near its face, even if you’re just trying to pet it. If you want to pet a dog, ask the owner for permission first and then pet the dog on the back or side.

6. Don’t try to take a toy or food away from a dog

Dogs can be very possessive of their toys and food. If you try to take a toy or food away from a dog, it may become aggressive.

7. Don’t approach a dog that is in a car

Dogs in cars can be very territorial. If you approach a dog that is in a car, the dog may bark or even attack you.

8. Don’t bother a dog that is behind a fence

Dogs that are behind fences may feel like they need to protect their territory. If you approach a dog that is behind a fence, the dog may bark or become aggressive.

9. Don’t encourage a dog to jump on you

Dogs may jump on you as a way of showing affection, but it can also be seen as a threat. If you don’t want a dog to jump on you, don’t encourage it by petting the dog while it’s jumping.

10. Don’t try to separate two fighting dogs

If you see two dogs fighting, don’t try to separate them. This can be very dangerous. Instead, call the police or animal control.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be much less likely to be attacked by a dog in New Zealand. Remember, most dogs are friendly and pose no threat to your safety. But it’s always best to be cautious around animals that you don’t know.