Attention all cyclists:
If you have been cycling for any length of time at all it is almost inevitable that you have encountered what I will call snapping dogs.
These furry agressive guys who insist that you have no right to freely travel down their street, and seem to have this uncontrollable compulsion to chase snap at, and even bite you. All of this while you are traveling at speeds that you'd rather not hit the pavement at.
What can you do?
There are a few options.
●Pepper sprays or mace (awkward at best to reach for unlock and try to hit a moving target while riding) it also takes a few seconds to kick in, so even if you manage to hit your mark you could be bitten and wreck regardless
● Yelling never seen this work, ever not once.
●Out running the dog. This is certainly an option if you are in any decent kind of riding shape, but not the best in my opinion because it sort of reinforces the predator vs. prey mentality that seems to be innate in many canines.
What to remember...
●This is very simple and, has worked without exception every single time I have tried it.
●The thing to realize in the animal kingdom is, intimidation goes a long way, so it is not necessary to actually attack or injure a dog if you are on a bike even if they totally have it coming.
●When you are on a bike, an aggressive dog sees you as prey, you are something to be chased, and gotten too.
●BE AWARE If you don't see danger coming, you're ambushed and basically screwed.
What I do...
●As you see the aggressive canine coming your way pick up speed, just enough to be ahead of your would be attacker. If you are in decent riding shape on a fairly fast bike you should be able to outrun all but the fastest dogs
●Remain calm, animals can sense fear.
●As the dog reaches it's peak speed slam on your brakes and let the dog launch past you * I guarantee they will not be expecting this.*
●Now you are behind the dog and can begin to bear down on it with your bike and give chase. they are now the prey, the tables have been turned. they will generally run off entirely confused with their tail between their legs.
sounds crazy but, it works.
Hope you enjoyed this! happy riding!