7 Step Guide To Stop Dog Fight + 5 Effective Methods

7 Step Guide To Stop Dog Fight Safely +5 Effective Methods (that works)

Learn how to safely break up a dog fight without injury. Follow expert tips to stop fights fast and effective methods that can be use to stop a dog fight, knowing reasons of fight can prevent future aggression.

Table of contents

7-Step Guide to Stop a Dog Fight Using the Wheelbarrow Technique

Step 1: Stay Calm (must)

Don’t panic! Take a deep breath and evaluate the fight. Dogs act how you act so, make sure you stay calm.

Step 2: Call for Help (immediately)

You’ll need a second person to assist especially if dogs are big. Each handler should focus on controlling one dog.

Step 3: Approach from behind

Carefully approach the dogs from behind. Avoid getting near their heads or mouths to prevent accidental bites.

Step 4: Grab the Hind Legs (carefully)

Each person should take hold of a dog by its hind legs, lifting it off the ground. Imagine it like carrying a wheelbarrow. This position will cause the dogs to lose their grip and become unsteady. While holding the dogs’ hind legs, gradually move backward in opposite directions.

Step 5: Secure the Dogs

Once separated, move the dogs to different areas or tie them securely at a safe distance from each other. Ensure they cannot see or reach one another. Also don’t try to sit closer to them.

Step 6: Monitor and Calm Down

After securing the dogs, give them time to calm down. Check both for injuries and address any wounds promptly. If necessary, consult a vet.

Step 7: Identify the cause

Identifying the cause can help prevent future incidents. Removing high value items like treats or toys in multi dog settings can reduce tension.

The wheelbarrow technique works because it prevents dogs from re engaging while keeping you out of harm’s way. With patience and teamwork, you can break up a fight effectively and safely!

How To Break Up A Dog Fight | 5 Effective Methods (that works)

Breaking up a dog fight can be dangerous discover safe, effective techniques to separate dogs without harm.

In this guide, we’ll explore safe and effective methods to break up a dog fight one by one.

1. Use Noise or Distractions to Break Their Focus

Loud noises are an effective way to disrupt a dog fight. Clap your hands, stomp your feet, or shout “stop” in a clear and firm voice. If you have an air horn or whistle, use it to distract the dogs.

If you’re outdoors, banging two objects together, slamming a car door can The key is to create a noise that shifts their attention without frightening them further.

2. Use a Physical Barrier

A physical barrier can help safely separate the dogs. Items like a backpack, chair, trash can lid, or even a sturdy piece of cardboard can be used to block their view of each other and create space.

For instance, sliding a large object between the dogs can prevent further bites and allow one of them to retreat.

3. Use Wheelbarrow Technique

The wheelbarrow technique is a tried and true method to safely break up a dog fight when two people are present. We discussed earlier in detail how to do that.

4. Use Water to stop fight

Water is a simple yet effective tool for breaking up dog fights. Splashing water directly at their faces can disrupt their focus and give you a chance to intervene.

If you go for walks often carrying a bottle of water can be a good decision to face any unexpected situation.

5. Safe Use of Dog Deterrent Sprays (for home)

If you have multiple dogs you must be ready for any type of situation.

Dog safe deterrent sprays, containing citronella, are another option for stopping a fight. These sprays are designed to interrupt aggressive behavior without causing harm to the dogs.

A quick spray near their faces can create enough distraction to separate them safely.

Avoid Major Mistakes (people often make)

While it’s natural to want to protect your dog and stop them from fighting quickly. There are some things you should never do when breaking up a dog fight:

Don’t Use Your Hands: Reaching into the fight can result in serious injuries, even from your own dog.

Don’t Pull Collars: Grabbing a dog’s collar during a fight can cause choking or escalate their aggression.

Don’t Kick or Hit: Physical force can worsen the situation and intensify the fight, they may cause the dogs to redirect their aggression toward you.

After the Fight: What to Do Next

Once the fight is over, separate the dogs and give them time to calm down in a safe, quiet space. Don’t sit closer to them right after fight. Check both dogs for injuries, even if they seem minor. Puncture wounds from bites can easily become infected, so consult your veterinarian if necessary.

Observe their behavior over the next few days, as fights can leave emotional scars. Some dogs may show signs of stress, fear, or avoidance after a fight.

Reintroduce them slowly

If the dogs must interact again (such as in a multi dog household), reintroduce them carefully. Use leashes, keep interactions brief, and reward them when they behave right, by the time they will learn to be together.

Why Do Dogs Lick Each Other After Fighting?

You might notice that dogs often lick each other after a fight. This behavior is a way for them to re establish social bonds and signal a truce. It’s a natural part of canine communication and can help reduce lingering tension.

Preventing Future Fights

Preventing dog fights is always better than breaking them up. Here are some tips to minimize the risk of future altercations:

Proper Socialization: Expose your dog to various situations, people, and other dogs early on.

Neuter or Spay: This can reduce hormone driven aggression in many dogs.

Supervise Play: Keep an eye on group interactions, especially when toys or treats are involved.

Obedience Training: Teach commands like “leave it” or “come” to redirect your dog’s attention during tense moments. We have separate in detail post on teaching your dog some crucial commands you can read.

Breaking up a dog fight is never an easy task, but with the right approach, you can handle the situation safely. By staying calm, using tools like noise, water, or barriers, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll minimize the risk of injury to both dogs and yourself.

Breaking Up a Dog Fight | 5 Effective Methods