When dogs wrestle and nip at each other, they are usually getting some exercise.Sometimes, though, the roughhousing gets out of control and you've got a full-blown dogfight on your hands.It's important to step in before one of the dogs gets hurt, if the fight doesn't seem to stop quickly.
Step 1: Stay cool.
The majority of dogfights last for a short time.A clear head is your greatest advantage.Startle the dogs enough to distract them.Don't grab your dog by the collar.When dogs are fighting, they may whip around and bite instinctively, even without previous aggression.When the dogs' bodies are rigid and it's clear they're fighting, don't reach for your hand in there.
Step 2: Make noise as much as you can.
Dogfights don't last long, so use whatever you have at hand.Whatever you can do to get the dogs' attention, yell, shriek, stomp, and clap your hands.You can bang two pieces of metal together if you have metal dog bowls or garbage cans nearby.
Step 3: Do not let them go down.
Water can get a dog's attention.If you have to, use a hose, a bucket, or a cup of soda.Most of the time the dogs will walk away, a little wet but not worse for wear.If you are going to a dog park with unfamiliar dogs, you should bring a spray bottle to use in an emergency.
Step 4: Use a barrier to break them up.
You can use something to separate the dogs.A large piece of cardboard, plywood, a garbage can lid, and a big stick can be used to separate dogs without putting your hands in harm's way.
Step 5: The dogs should be covered with a blanket.
Some dogs will stop fighting when they can't see each other.If you have a large blanket, tarp, jacket, or other piece of opaque material, try tossing it over the fighting dogs to calm them down.
Step 6: You should know the circumstances in which you should intervene.
It's important to note that most fights between dogs last only seconds and can appear worse than they really are.Fights involving fighting breeds should be stopped because they can't read social signals from other dogs.Fights between dogs of two different sizes or two females in heat likely will need to be broken up, as well as fights involving dogs who are known to have done physical harm in the past or will not walk away.
Step 7: Don't get near the dogs.
It is almost impossible to get between two dogs that are biting.The dogs will mistake you for another target and bite you.If the dogs are small, you can step between them to block their view from each other and diffuse the situation.
Step 8: The dog needs to be held.
From behind, grab the top of the dog's hind legs.Take their paws off the ground and put them in a wheelbarrow.The dog will not be able to turn and bite you if you walk backwards.If someone else grabs the legs of the other dog, you can pull them apart.You will get bitten if you insert your arms into a dog fight.You can use a leash around the hind legs to pull your dog out of the fight.Keep the dogs out of each other's sight once they have been separated.They may fight when they see each other.As soon as possible, put your dog in the car or behind a closed door.If you are alone and the dog does not have a leash, use a belt or tie.Put one dog in an object and the other in a different location.
Step 9: Put your legs together.
If nothing else is working, you may feel like you have to get physically involved to keep your dog safe.You may be able to push some dogs apart with your legs and feet if you're wearing pants and heavy shoes.Understand that this should only be attempted with smaller dogs, and that it should not be done when the dogs are biting, as they will bite your legs.You are at risk of injury yourself.It is not recommended for large dogs, such as German shepherds, since it is possible to get hurt from a bite to the groin.When done with more than one person, this technique is even more effective.It's not necessary to kick or hurt the dogs in order to separate them.Don't forget to protect yourself after you have separated the dogs.Stand still, look at the dog, and avoid eye contact if one or more of the dogs becomes aggressive towards you.
Step 10: Your dog interacts with other dogs.
Do your dog bark, pounce, and snap?How rough does she play?It will be easier to tell when a fight is about to break if you know what your dog does around other dogs.
Step 11: The dogs' bodies should be watched.
When dogs are fighting, it often sounds like they are playing.Dogs bite one another roughly.Don't listen to the dogs' bodies.They're probably just playing if they look loose and relaxed.If the dogs' tails are down, they may be ready to fight.
Step 12: Involving in harassment and rough play.
One dog may think it's playtime, but the other isn't having it.It may be better to separate the dogs if this is the case.Even if both dogs seem to like it, playtime can be too rough.A large dog might hurt a small dog.
Step 13: Do not encourage competition.
Dogs are territorial over food and toys.Some breeds are better at defending their rights than others.If you know your dog's personality quirks, you can prevent a fight from happening.When your dog is interacting with other dogs, put treats, food, and toys away.Feed multiple dogs in separate rooms if they get territorial.
Step 14: Your dog needs to be taught to play.
It's your responsibility to teach your dog not to attack other people when you first bring him home.Positive reinforcement can be used to reward good behavior.When your dog bites, growls or exhibits other behavior that seems too violent, separate her from the dog she's playing with and put her in time out until she calms down.
Step 15: Your dog should come when you call.
If your dog is good at obeying your call, you will be able to pull her out of tense situations before they escalate.When she's still young, start training her how to come and stay, and practice with other dogs.