What should you do if a dog chases you while walking?
If a dog runs at you on a walk, stop and stay calm. Do not run or scream. Stand still with your side toward the dog, keep your eyes off its face, and tell it "No" or "Go home" in a deep, firm voice, which is the CDC's advice for an unfamiliar dog. Most dogs lose interest. Back away slowly, and if you are bitten, wash the wound and see a healthcare provider.
Staying calm and safe
01Freeze instead of fleeing
Walkers are often tempted to hurry away, but quick movement can turn a curious dog into a chasing one. The ASPCA advises staying quiet and still when an unknown dog approaches. Let the dog sniff and decide you are not interesting.
02Make yourself calm and boring
Stand sideways to the dog, keep your hands close to your body, and look past it rather than at it. The CDC suggests slowly raising your hands to your neck with your elbows in. Avoid waving an umbrella, bag or walking stick at it.
03Speak low and firm
A deep "No" or "Go home" works better than shouting. Watch the dog's body while you speak: the ASPCA lists bared teeth, growling, lunging, a stiff body with ears forward and a fixed stare as signs a bite may follow. If the owner is nearby, call out to them by name if you know it, and ask them to come and get their dog.
04Put something between you
If the dog keeps coming, step behind a parked car, a mailbox, a bench or a tree, or hold a bag in front of your legs. A barrier gives the dog a reason to stop and gives you time.
05If you fall, cover up
If a dog knocks you over, curl into a ball, tuck your head and cover your ears and neck with your hands. Call 911 for a serious attack, or ask anyone nearby to call.
06Clean any bite and report it
Rinse the wound under running water with soap for a full 15 minutes, which is the CDC's rabies advice, then call your doctor or an urgent care clinic. Go in promptly if it is deep, turns red or swollen, the dog's rabies status is unknown or your tetanus shot is out of date. Ask the owner for their name, address and the dog's vaccination record, and report the dog to animal control. Older adults and anyone on blood thinners should get even small bites looked at.
Related questions
What if I use a cane or walker?
Stay still and keep your mobility aid planted for balance rather than swinging it. Holding it between you and the dog can act as a barrier. Call out for help and let the owner or a neighbor deal with the dog.
What if I am walking with a child?
Pull the child close, ideally behind you, and ask them to stand still with their arms folded in and look at their feet. Children tend to run or scream, which is exactly what sets a dog off, so practice this at home. Once the dog loses interest, walk away together slowly.
Can someone come and help me after a scare?
Yes. Tap SOS in Holler and your Guardians get your location by email and push, so they can call you or come to you. For a serious injury, call 911 yourself. If you often walk alone, a safety contact who knows your usual loop makes that call easier. See getting help while walking alone.
How do I avoid loose dogs on my walks?
Note the houses and yards where dogs get out and cross the street before you reach them. Report dogs that are regularly loose. The walking safety hub has more route tips.
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Sources, checked September 2026: CDC: Dogs and your health, ASPCA: Dog bite prevention, CDC: Preventing rabies (animal bites).
More safety answers, or see the safety guides.