What to do when you encounter an aggressive dog?

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

We live in a condo community with many dogs. There are two very aggressive dogs in the neighborhood...one german shepherd and a bull mastiff. I'm wondering how to best react when I'm with my Doodle puppy (only 10 pounds) when we run across these dogs. Each of them has already attacked two other dogs at the "pen" where we bring our dogs to do their business. Am I better to just pick up my puppy or does that make matters worse? Even though the dogs are leashed, in these two instances they were able to break away from their owners to go after the other dogs.

[Sessa]

In your case, it sounds like avoidance is best---just don't use the area when they do. If they show up when you are already there, leave immediately. no biggie. ;)

From experience, carrying pepper spray or even a walking stick while out and about can be a life saver when encountering strange, off-leash dogs....its a simple and effective way to PREPARE yourself for the worst...

but, not wanting to encourage thoughts of the "worse"...I would also encourage learning body language and visual cues associated with both dogs and humans...the best way to avoid a run-in is to see it before it actually happens---all of these types of events have "build-ups" that can be spotted and stopped in its tracks....

last thought, from experience as well---NEVER, NEVER reach in with your hands to break up a dog fight...(the only time to do so is to pull a dog out by its hind legs, even then, its very dangerous)....always use your body and legs first---lead with your feet and use your thighs to create space.

Don't be afraid---have confidence and ENJOY the world with your new pup!