Quote Originally Posted by Derby Tup View Post
So enough about the slobbering collies and loveable labradors. I ask again what does one do when confronted by a dog that doesn't want a stroke but wants to maul you?
Stop running. Stand still. Don't make eye-contact with the dog. Remain silent, and try your best to think calm thoughts and try and cultivate a 'relaxed' demeanour even if you're very pissed off or fearful. And wait for the owner to take control if that's feasible.

Dogs are very acute at reading human and their own non-verbals, they've evolved along with us, and so will sense if you're a threat or scared. If you make eye-contact, in dog-behaviour, you are challenging them.

Once out running locally a couple of years ago I ran over a ridge and spooked a doberman out walking with it's owner. The dog torn up the hill towards me snarling (the owner was below shouting ineffectively for the dog to stop). There was nowhere for me to run and I didn't think I could easily fight it off (a very last resort!). The dog veered off at the last moment. It was probably the dog's protective sense that caused the aggressive display.

The only time I've been bitten was by a neighbour's collie. Saturday morning run. Said 'Hi' to the neighbour as I passed him in the lane, and their dog seemed disinterested, by bit one of my calves and then ran off as I ran passed (typical collie style!). Again, I stood still and waited for the owner to put it on the lead before we had 'a conversation!!!!!'