How To Break Up A Dog Fight

Every responsible dog owner should understand how to break up a dog fight. In addition, every responsible dog owner should understand when not to break up a dog fight. It is always tempting to get involved when two or more dogs are going at each other.  One or both of the dogs is likely to get hurt; however, if you do not know what you are doing, you risk of getting hurt as well. If you take the right precautions, you can stop the mayhem before any serious damage occurs.

1. Before you ever even consider breaking up a dog fight, it is important to assess the situation thoroughly.  Take note of the size and strength of both dogs.  If you feel that you will be over powered, never physically approach the two fighting dogs. 
2. Never hit or harm either dog in any way.  Inflicting physical pain will only serve to make the dogs angrier. This will increase their aggression, and increase your chances of becoming harmed.
3. After assessing the situation, attempt to enlist the help of another capable person. If both dogs are small and can be easily handled, you can attempt to break up a dog fight by using physical force. Take note that you should never step between fighting dogs. Instead, with the aide of another person, pull the dogs apart by their hind legs. 
4. If another person is not present or the physical danger is too great, attempt to break up a dog fight by spraying the dogs with water. This should shock the dogs and they will lose the instinctive desire to fight.
5. Shouting or using a noise maker is another great safe way to break up a dog fight. Quick, loud noises can distract the dogs long enough for them to lose focus.
6. You can also use your ingenuity.  The key is to not break up the fight with your physical body.  Use what you have at hand—a net, a broom, cardboard, basically anything that can be used as barrier between the two dogs. 

Tips and warnings:

• Pepper spray may work, but it should be used as a last resort, because it may just serve to anger the dogs further.
• Never put yourself in between two fighting dogs.
• If you are bitten, seek medical advice immediately.
• The best way to stop a dog fight is to not let it happen.  Take control of the situation and enforce your will before things can get out of hand. 
• Leashing your dog in public will decrease the likelihood of him getting involved in a dog fight.