Disclaimer: I'm no expert. My advice and opinion are worth what you paid for it.

FWIW, I hate this topic. But it is a valid issue and is better talked about than not IMO.



I don't think so. I've seen a fair number of bad tempered Goldens.

In the end tho, I think it is importaint to remember that individuals, not breeds that are the problem and that breed based laws are misguided.

And while there are obviously individual dogs who are "not right", I think most bad behavior can be attributed to the owners not properly training and socializing their dogs. And certainly not taking responsibility for thier dogs.

The big problem with these laws (and this behavior) is the dog always pays. We need responsible dog ownership and laws should be aimed at irresponsible owners, regardless of the breed.

Ok sorry about that... back on topic.

The first thing I suggest is that people who are likely to come in contact with a possible risk learn about it. In this case, I'd say that means everyone. :-) This isn't aimed at the posters here -- this is just a general statement. So, learn about dogs, esp. big dogs. Everyone should be able to read the basic attitude of a dog (agression, fear, play, etc.) through their stance (tail up, tail down, ears up, ears back, etc.). People should understand the difference between agression and fear, etc. Considering how many dogs there are in this country, I really don't understand why we don't cover this in school. Certainly parents should cover it IMO.

Anyway, understanding dogs can help avoid problems and problems should be avoided wherever possible IMO. :-)

In an encounter I think you quickly reach a fork in the road based on if the dog is agressive. IMO agressive dogs attack, they don't hesitate. In a situation where attacked by an *aggressive* dog, a focused and powerful opponent, you are in a fight for your life and you should probably react as such.

In such a situation I'd say my preference would be to have a firearm, and second choice would be an ASP style baton.

If the dog doesn't attack outright, I would try to ease myself out of the situation.

If you can't ease your way out I think it would be worth trying an OC spray. Perhaps the first blast between you and the dog where it just gets a whiff and hopefully decides to go somewhere else. Perhaps it will cause the dog enough pause to allow you to back away, or if needed, you can give it a full spray.

But (just like if your attacker was a human) you'd better have a backup plan. Again, I think an ASP baton or firearm are probably your best bets, but a rock, brick or whatever is going to be better than nothing.

Of course, this doesn't fit the situation of the original poster where the kids were involved. I'm more talking about if you are out running or whatever.

In the case of the original poster, I think he was correct to consider the dogs posed a risk to the kids and that the situation should be reported.

Perhaps the kids could have been made to go inside -- at least an attempt to get the parents to get the kids inside would transfer the burden of responsibility on the parents.

If it was known who the dogs belonged to they certainly should have been called to come get their dogs. Dogs running free isn't acceptable.

Unless you know the owners well, it should be reported to the police (if you know them well, you would able to get ahold of them and have them come deal with their dogs). Hopefully you have your cell on you and your neighbors in the address book.

If the police are relucaint to come, I would start asking the 911 operator how it will play out in the news if the dogs attack the kids and they had refused to respond. It's all on tape. I suspect it will get their attention.

BTW, here is a similar thread on CPF.

Be safe out there.

-john