Cycling is a great outdoor activity that keeps you in shape. However, it can be difficult to enjoy your trip if an overly eager dog is chasing you. It can be deadly in addition to intimidating and stressful.Dogs chasing cyclists can be a common experience for many riders, especially in areas where cycling is not as prevalent. I have personally faced it riding 4 am in the morning where out of 20 dogs, a few would chase and be followed by other dogs barking all over the place.
I believe this experience is common to you as well as we live in a society where cycling is not that common. But before we proceed with what to do when dogs chase cyclists while riding, let’s understand dog psychology.
In my experience dogs consider cyclists with helmets and unusual clothing as alien and a threat. Their first instinct makes them bark at us and then reduce the chances of danger from their zone.
Alternatively, dogs have an innate desire to seek moving objects and passing bikers might arouse this desire. Dogs may also be possessive and perceive bicyclists as intruders in their domain. Some dogs could be aggressively guarding their owners and perceive cyclists as possible intruders. Additionally, some dogs could be bored or just looking for attention and chase after bikers for amusement or to elicit a response. It’s important to keep in mind that each dog is unique, and there are a variety of reasons why they might pursue after bikers and arise the question, why dogs chase cyclist.
Now coming back to the point of how to stay safe on the road while riding and avoid dog chasing danger.
Be calm
Try not to worry if a dog does start after you. Instead, maintain your composure. Dogs are able to detect fear, and if they think you are afraid, they might chase you longer. Instead, concentrate on riding with assurance and assertiveness. In my personal experience if you slow down if dogs are chasing them, they will start getting calmer too. You may carry some cookies to feed them
Be friendly
If a dog starts chasing you does not mean we need to take harsh steps at it. This is further increase the danger. You may be friendly to the dogs, stop, call them, feed them (not only during the ride but otherwise as well) and don’t get scared. Dogs are social animals after knowing you for a while they will stop chasing you.
In my personal experience when I moved to a new location and started cycling in the early morning around 4 am/5 am, I felt this consistent danger of dogs. But gradually I made sure that dogs could expect me that early morning and therefore they consider it as a regular affair.
Make intelligent route selections.
Dogs are more common in some locations than others. Try to stay away from regions where you know there are a lot of dogs while planning your bicycle route. A rural road with fewer residences may have fewer dogs than parks or neighbourhoods with a lot of fenced-in yards.
Ride with caution
Be mindful of your surroundings at all times and keep an eye out for any dogs that could be nearby. Slow down and attempt to put some space between you and the dog if you spot one. Never go up to a dog or look at it directly because this could be taken as a threat.
Be ready.
While cycling, keep an air horn or whistle nearby. If a dog approaches, use the air horn or whistle to frighten it and prevent it from pursuing you.
Use your voice
Try commanding a dog to stop chasing you using a firm voice if necessary. Say “No” or “Stay” out loud and with authority. The dog might be stopped in its tracks by this.
Don’t use deterrents like pepper spray.
While using pepper spray or other deterrents to keep dogs away may be tempting, doing so can be risky and even potentially injurious to both you and the dog. Instead, concentrate on utilising non-lethal deterrents like your voice or a whistle.
Dogs can be a hassle when cycling, but you can prevent being pursued by them by taking the proper measures. Decide on a route carefully, ride defensively, be ready, speak up, refrain from employing dangerous deterrents, and maintain your composure. You can enjoy your ride without being concerned about being pursued by a dog if you keep these suggestions in mind.
In conclusion, while dogs chase cyclists can be intimidating and stressful,Keep in mind, dogs are not dangerous, they are just protecting their territory and reducing the threat perception. You can avoid being a threat to them by being friendly with your actions.
Happy riding also know the types of cycling.
