Open Air Life

I think as runners we have all been running down the street, relaxed in the groove and all of a sudden out of nowhere, you have that four legged (they say man’s best friend) dog on your heels.  Man what a way to interrupted your rhythm and shoot your heart rate through the roof. Not that we don't run to get our heart rate up, I just perfer it to be me doing it to myself and not because I am running for my life. Here are some do and do not’s when running in them dog infested neighborhoods.

Do’s

• Stand your ground
• Stay relaxed and try not to show the dog your fear
• Talk to the dog.  Speak in a deep firm voice.
• Tell him what you want and expect from him. Tell him to go home.

Do not’s

• Don’t run, it will only trigger the dogs instinct. Chase its prey.
• Don’t make direct eye contact.  The dog will fill threatened and might be more aggressive

And if none of that works then I hope that you’re a fast runner. Just kidding. Another trick it to try squirting him with your water bottle. I hope this help on your next encounter with a dog. Keep running and enjoy the paths less traveled.