AN expert has revealed exactly how to know if a dog is about to attack – and what you should do next.
Vet charity PDSA says that although some breeds are more vicious than most, "any dog can become aggressive."
Speaking to The Independent, the charity explained: "A well-socialised dog will not normally be actively aggressive towards other dogs and dogs don’t go around looking to attack others.
"But any dog can become aggressive if they are afraid and feel there is no other way out of the situation.
"This can be due to a current perceived threat or even past experience making them uncomfortable.
"It can be really distressing if a dog becomes aggressive.
"Obviously your main concern is the welfare of your furry friend, but there are a few important things you need to do if your dog or a person is a victim of a dog bite."
Dogs usually display signs of aggression well before biting.
These warning signs include growling, snapping, snarling, baring teeth and lunging.
PDSA says: "If another dog shows signs of aggression towards your dog, the best thing you can do is walk away calmly but quickly.
"Don’t get too close, but try to put a visual barrier like a gate, fence or car in between your dog and the other dog.
"Don't let your dog approach as this will make the other dog more nervous and could make the situation worse.
"Many people are bitten trying to break up a dog fight."
"It's worth looking out for earlier signs a dog is uncomfortable too, since not all dogs will growl, snap or bear their teeth before they go to bite."
The charity's expert vets have listed the seven warning signs which show a dog is about to attack.
These signs of aggression are: licking lips, ears flattened backwards, yawning, "whale eyes" in a white half-moon shape, face turned away, movement away from another dog, crouching close to the ground.
The experts said: "Be aware of your dog and their body language.
"When you notice these signs, give your dog some space.
"Sometimes dogs just need a break from the company of other dogs or people and then they may be happy to play together again.
"Don’t force them to deal with other dogs or people if they are showing signs that they are stressed as this can make them even more uncomfortable.
"Remember that a dog on a lead has less of a chance to ‘walk away’ from a situation they are finding stressful, so they may be more likely to show signs of discomfort or even aggression to try and keep their own space."
If your pooch gets involved in a scrap with another dog, do not try to separate them or you could end up badly injured.
Dog bites should be washed under a cold tap for ten minutes, even if your skin isn't broken.
You should also seek medical attention as soon as possible.
It comes after a woman was tragically mauled to death in a ferocious dog attack yesterday – leaving witnesses "haunted".
The 28-year-old, believed to be a dog walker, was out with seven hounds in Caterham, Surrey, when she was savaged.
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