What to Do When Your Dog Gets into a Fight with Another Dog

Here are a few things you need to know about dog fights:

1. Separate Them Before They Get Hurt, But Be Careful
   It’s best to pull the dogs apart before they injure each other, but this can be dangerous for you.
2. Distraction Works Better Than Force
   The most common and effective method isn’t to yank them apart but to distract them.
3. Train Them Young
   It’s best to train your dog to reduce aggressive behavior while they’re still a puppy.

So, What Should You Do When Dogs Fight?

Pull Them Apart, but Do It Right

1. According to renowned animal behaviorist Dr. Sophia Yin, the safest way to separate two animals is to grab their rumps or hind legs and quickly pull them backward.
2. If you have a leash nearby, you can loop it around their hind legs and pull them back.
3. If they’re moving too fast to grab, you can try using your foot against their ribs to push them apart. Note: This isn’t kicking the dog but using your foot as a pivot to push them away. This method is much safer than leaning in with your hands, and it keeps your hands free to control them as needed.

Distract Them

1. Insert a board or another object between them.
2. Create loud noises nearby—bang something or blow a whistle.
3. Throw a blanket over one or both dogs.
4. Gently tap them on the head with a newspaper or magazine.

After the Fight, Pay Special Attention to the Following:

1. Separate and Inspect
   Take your dogs away from the scene and carefully check them for injuries.
2. Watch Long-Haired Dogs Closely
   Injuries can be hard to spot on long-haired dogs, so keep a close eye on their behavior.
3. Get Medical Help for Small Dogs Attacked by Larger Ones
   If a small dog was attacked and picked up by a larger dog, take them to a vet immediately to prevent internal injuries or death from internal bleeding.

Precautions When Stopping a Dog Fight:

1. Stay Calm
   Don’t shout or yank on the leash when you see dogs fighting—it’ll only make them more agitated and aggressive.
2. Protect Yourself
   Be mindful of your own safety when rescuing a dog that’s being attacked. Intervening can be very dangerous and may result in serious injury to you.