What should you do if a dog chases you while running?
If a dog chases you on a run, stop running. Running can trigger a dog's urge to chase. Stand still with your side toward the dog, avoid staring at it, and say "No" or "Go home" in a firm, deep voice, as the CDC advises. When it loses interest, back away slowly. If you are bitten, wash the wound with soap and water and see a healthcare provider, and call 911 for a serious attack.
How to handle it
01Spot the warning signs early
The ASPCA lists the signs of a dog that may bite: bared teeth, growling, lunging or barking, a stiff body with ears forward, and a direct stare. If you see a loose dog doing this ahead of you, slow to a walk, cross the road or turn around before it commits to a chase. Stopping at 30 feet is easier than stopping with a dog at your heels.
02Stop and stand still
It feels wrong, but slowing to a stop is usually safer than sprinting. You cannot outrun most dogs, and a runner moving away looks like something to chase. The ASPCA's advice for an unknown dog is to stay quiet and still, and not to run or scream.
03Turn your side to the dog and avoid eye contact
The CDC suggests standing with the side of your body facing the dog, avoiding direct eye contact, and slowly raising your hands to your neck with your elbows in. Then say "No" or "Go home" in a deep, firm voice. A hard stare can read as a challenge, and screaming or waving your arms can wind the dog up, so keep the dog in your peripheral vision and stay quiet otherwise.
04Back away slowly, then walk on
Once the dog stops advancing, back away a few steps at a time without turning your back quickly. Walk until you are well clear before starting to run again. Choose a different route next time.
05If you are knocked down, protect yourself
Curl into a ball, tuck your head, and cover your ears and neck with your hands, which is the CDC's advice. If you are wearing a running vest or carrying a jacket, put it between you and the dog. Stay as still as you can. If the attack is serious, call 911, or have someone call for you.
06After a bite, clean it and get checked
The CDC's rabies guidance is to wash any bite with soap and water for 15 minutes, then talk to a healthcare provider. See one promptly if the wound is deep or bleeding heavily, gets red or swollen, the dog's rabies vaccination is unknown, or your last tetanus shot was more than five years ago. Before you leave, get the owner's name and address, or photograph the dog and note the street, and report it to animal control.
Related questions
Should I carry something to deter dogs?
Some runners carry a whistle or keep a water bottle handy to put between themselves and a dog. Stillness and a calm voice solve most encounters. A personal safety alarm may startle some dogs but is not reliable against all of them.
How do I get help if I am hurt far from home?
Call 911 for a serious bite. For a smaller injury, tap SOS in Holler so your Guardians get your location and can come and pick you up. Holler does not contact 911 for you. See getting help while running alone.
What if the same dog chases me every time I run past?
Change your route, and report a loose or aggressive dog to local animal control with the address. That protects you and the next runner too.
Should I keep running with headphones on routes with dogs?
Turn the volume down or use one earbud on routes where dogs roam. Hearing barking or a collar tag early gives you time to slow down before the dog reaches you. Our guide to running with headphones safely covers the trade-offs.
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Sources, checked September 2026: CDC: Dogs and your health, ASPCA: Dog bite prevention, CDC: Preventing rabies (animal bites).
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