Dog fights can be terrifying—both for the people involved and the dogs themselves. They often happen in seconds, turning a peaceful walk in the park or playdate into chaos.
Knowing what to do when dogs fight can mean the difference between a safe resolution and serious injury. In this guide, we’ll cover:
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Why dogs fight
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Common and safe break-up methods
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Uncommon (and surprising) tactics
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What to do after the fight
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How to prevent future incidents
Why Do Dogs Fight?
Even well-socialised dogs can get into fights. Common triggers include:
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Resource guarding (toys, food, treats)
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Territorial disputes
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Overstimulation during play
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Fear or anxiety
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Protective behaviour over an owner or another dog
It’s important to remember that a dog fight doesn’t always mean a dog is “bad”—it’s often a reaction to a specific situation.
First Rule: Stay Calm and Think Safety First
Your natural instinct may be to rush in and grab your dog, but that’s dangerous. A dog in fight mode can bite anyone—accidentally or otherwise.
Key safety rules:
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Never put your hands between fighting dogs’ heads.
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Avoid grabbing collars from the front.
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Protect yourself before attempting to intervene.
Common Methods to Stop a Dog Fight
1. The Wheelbarrow Method
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Each person grabs the back legs of their own dog (not the front!) and lifts them like a wheelbarrow.
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Pull the dogs apart and turn them in a circle to break focus.
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This works because dogs have less power when lifted from behind and will often release their grip.
Important: This requires two people—one for each dog.
2. Loud Noise Distraction
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Clap your hands, bang metal bowls together, or blow a loud whistle/air horn.
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The sudden noise can break their concentration long enough for you to separate them.
- Very effective can also be our Dog Clicker if you train your dog well
3. Water Spray
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Use a garden hose, spray bottle, or even a water bucket.
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Dogs often break apart when hit with a sudden blast of water.
- or use our citronella spray collar with remote control
4. Barrier Method
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Place something between the dogs, such as a chair, large board, or even a blanket thrown over one dog.
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This blocks their vision and can help you safely separate them.
5. Leash Pull-Back
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If both dogs are on leads, pull them apart from a safe distance using the leash as a handle.
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This works best if both handlers coordinate.
Uncommon (and Surprising) Methods
Some dog handlers and trainers have used unconventional tactics that work in certain situations—though they’re definitely not for everyone.
1. The Anal Gland Squeeze (“Finger in the Bum”)
Yes, it sounds bizarre—but it’s a real method some professionals use in emergencies. The idea is that stimulating a dog’s rear end will cause surprise or discomfort, prompting them to release their grip.
How it works:
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Insert a finger into the dog’s anus (over clothing or with gloves if possible).
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This is not harmful when done quickly, but it’s obviously not a method most people are eager to try.
Warning:
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This should be an absolute last resort and only if you can do it safely without being bitten.
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It’s not a replacement for safer, more common methods like the wheelbarrow technique.
2. Odour Distraction
Some trainers carry strong-smelling substances (like citronella spray) to interrupt fights. The sudden scent can startle a dog into stopping.
3. Twist and Lift Technique
Similar to the wheelbarrow method, but you gently twist the dog’s back legs as you lift. The movement destabilises them enough to break their focus.
4. Blanket Wrap
Throwing a large blanket or coat over one dog can confuse and disorient them, giving you a chance to separate them.
What to Do Immediately After the Fight
Once the dogs are separated:
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Keep them apart until they are completely calm.
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Check for injuries—even small bites can become infected.
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See a vet if there’s any sign of puncture wounds, limping, or distress.
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Avoid scolding—dogs don’t connect post-fight punishment to the behaviour.
How to Prevent Dog Fights
1. Know Your Dog’s Triggers
If your dog gets tense around certain breeds, toys, or situations, avoid them where possible.
2. Socialise Early and Often
Well-socialised dogs are less likely to fight, as they’ve learned how to read canine body language.
3. Use Proper Introductions
When meeting new dogs, keep them on leads, let them sniff briefly, then move together in the same direction before allowing off-lead play.
4. Supervise Playtime
Monitor body language—look for stiff posture, raised hackles, prolonged staring, or lip curling as signs to intervene early.
5. Obedience Training
Commands like leave it, come, and stay can be lifesavers in tense moments.
Reading the Warning Signs
Most dog fights don’t happen out of nowhere—dogs often give signals first. Watch for:
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Stiff body posture
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Growling or snarling
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Tail held high and stiff
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Side-eye staring
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Raised hackles
Intervening at this stage can prevent escalation.
Final Thoughts: What to Do When Dogs Fight
Breaking up a dog fight is dangerous, but knowing your options can help you act quickly and safely. The wheelbarrow method, loud noises, and water spray are tried-and-true approaches, while the “finger in the bum” technique remains a strange but occasionally effective last resort.
Most importantly, prevention through training, socialisation, and supervision is the best way to ensure your dog never gets into a fight in the first place.
