Approaching a scared or unfamiliar dog

A dog that's lost or frightened isn't thinking clearly. Your goal is to look as unthreatening as possible and let the dog decide.

Make yourself less scary

• Approach from the side, not head-on.
• Crouch or sit, and turn partly away.
• Avoid direct eye contact. Look at the ground near the dog instead.
• Keep your hands low and still. Don't reach over the dog's head.
• Talk softly, or not at all.

Let the dog come to you

Toss strong-smelling food a little way from you, then a little closer. Let the dog sniff your hand before you touch it, and stroke the chest or side rather than the top of the head.

Signs to back off

• Stiff body, freezing, or a hard stare.
• Growling, a lifted lip or snapping.
• Tail tucked tight, ears pinned, trying to escape.
• Showing the whites of its eyes.

These are warnings, and they're useful. Respect them and give the dog more space.

Don't chase

Chasing usually makes a scared dog run, often into traffic. If you can't get close, call Animal Services (311 or 305-468-5900 in Miami-Dade), stay at a distance and keep the dog in view if you safely can.