What to do if your dog is involved in a fight
Why do dogs get into fights?
Dogs can get into fights for many different reasons. If a dog is in pain, they might react more strongly and want to protect themselves. Another common reason is resource guarding – when a dog defends its toy or food because it wants it left alone. Fights can also break out when dogs are playing, and one wants to stop while the other doesn't get the hint. When the first dog's patience runs out, things can get heated.
As well as resource guarding, limited space is another major cause of dog fights. If dogs can't create distance themselves, they might resort to defending themselves. Leashes can also contribute, as they prevent dogs from getting the space they need. Dogs are usually quite good at resolving conflicts from a distance, but a leash can hinder this.
Avoiding fights and resource guarding
To help prevent fights, be mindful of which dogs your dog socialises with. It's best if they have a few regular canine pals they play with. If you let your dog off the lead with unfamiliar dogs in a park, for example, keep a close eye on them. If you sense any tension, call your dog back and walk away. Even the friendliest dog can react unpredictably to others.
Remember that resource guarding and tense situations are more likely to escalate when dogs are in confined spaces or on a lead. So, avoid letting your dog greet other dogs on a lead or meet them for the first time indoors or in a busy dog park. Their body language and ability to create distance are limited, which can make fights more likely. If they can't escape the situation, confrontation might be their only option. We want to encourage dogs to create distance instead, so help yours do that.
When it comes to resource guarding, it can help to remove items that might trigger a fight, like toys or chews. Dogs might also guard their food, water bowls, or even their owner.
When your dog is involved in a fight
If your dog gets into a fight, your own safety comes first. Never try to physically separate fighting dogs with your hands, no matter how much you want to protect your pet. This puts you in serious danger of injury. Instead, try to distract them by making loud noises or perhaps throwing water at them.
If one dog has a firm grip and won't let go, don't try to pull them apart. Wait for the dog to release its grip or reposition, then gently remove them. Trying to force their jaws open can cause severe damage.
After a dog fight
If your dog is injured after a fight, try to get the other owner's contact details so you can stay in touch. In many places, owners are strictly liable for any injuries their dog causes.
Even if your dog seems okay, it's important to check their entire body for any wounds. If you find a wound that's more than a few millimetres deep and has broken the skin, you need to see a vet. Deep bite wounds can easily become infected if not treated promptly. If you suspect a bite has penetrated the skin, contact a vet for advice straight away.
For smaller, superficial wounds that haven't broken the skin, cleaning them with soap and water is often enough. Just make sure your dog can't lick the wound – use a cone collar if necessary. You might want to trim or shave the fur around the wound. If the wound swells or looks infected, book an appointment with your vet. If you're unsure how to care for a minor wound, we recommend contacting our virtual vet service, available with unlimited calls for Lassie insurance customers.
If your dog has a smaller, superficial wound that does not penetrate the skin, it is often enough to keep the wound clean with soap and water, but make sure that your dog cannot lick it, so use a collar. It may be a good idea to trim or shave off the fur in the area. If the wound swells or becomes persistent, you will need to make an appointment with a vet for help. If you're unsure how to care for your dog with a minor, superficial wound, we recommend contacting digital vet, which you have unlimited access to as a Lassie insurance customer.
