Here are the safest approaches used by trainers, vets, and experienced handlers:
1. Stay Calm & Assess
- Panic fuels chaos. Dogs feed off energy.
- Yelling rarely works and may even escalate things.
2. Use Distractions (First Choice if Possible)
- Loud noise: Air horn, whistle, metal pan clanging, even a strong shout.
- Water: Hose, bucket, water bottle squirted in the face.
- Blanket/jacket: Throw it over one dog to break focus.
3. Physical Intervention (Last Resort)
If distractions don’t work and you must intervene:
- Wheelbarrow Method (with two people):Each person grabs the back legs of one dog and lifts them like a wheelbarrow, pulling backward. Keep moving in a circle to prevent them from whipping around and biting you.
- Break Stick (for strong-jawed breeds):Trainers use a wedge-shaped tool to pry open a dog’s jaws if they’re locked. Do not attempt unless you’re trained — it’s specialized and risky.
4. If Alone
- Grab the hind legs of the aggressor, wheelbarrow backwards, and drag to a barrier (fence, door, separate room)
- Never grab the collar or head area — high chance of being bitten.
5. After Separation
- Keep them fully apart until calm.
- Check both dogs for injuries (adrenaline can mask wounds).
- Get vet attention if punctures or deep cuts are present.