"It's Okay, He's Friendly!": What to Do When an Off-Leash Dog Charges Your Reactive Dog
A 3-step script for the moment every reactive dog owner dreads, an off-leash dog running straight at you, plus what not to do.
You're having a good walk. Then you hear it: "IT'S OKAY, HE'S FRIENDLY!" And an off-leash dog is sprinting straight at your reactive dog.
For many owners, this is the scariest moment of all. Having a plan ready changes everything, because a calm handler makes a calmer dog.
The 3-step script
1. Say it loud and clear
Shout a firm: "STOP! My dog is not friendly!"
Yes, even if your dog is just nervous. "He's in training" or "she's reactive" doesn't register with most people. "Not friendly" makes owners move fast.
2. Step between the dogs
Turn your body so you're between your dog and the incoming dog. Many dogs slow down or stop when a person blocks their path. Hold your hand out like a stop sign if it helps.
3. Toss treats at the other dog
Throw a big handful of treats at the incoming dog's feet. Most dogs stop to eat. Use those seconds to walk away briskly with your dog.
What not to do
- Don't pick up a big dog while another dog is jumping on you. You can get hurt.
- Don't yank your dog's leash hard. It adds pain and panic to an already scary moment.
- Don't let them "work it out." Forced greetings are one of the fastest ways to make reactivity worse.
Optional tools some owners carry
- An umbrella that pops open. The sudden movement stops many dogs.
- A deterrent spray. Check your local rules first.
Practice opening the umbrella at home so your own dog isn't scared of it.
After the encounter
Expect your dog's stress to stay high for a while. Skip training near dogs for 1 to 2 days. Do sniff walks in quiet places and brain games at home. Write the incident in your walk log so you can see if a route or time keeps causing trouble.
If off-leash dogs are common on a route, change the route. Protecting your progress isn't avoiding the problem. It's part of the plan.
Calm Walks in 30 Days
The 30-day plan for dogs who bark, lunge and lose it at other dogs on leash. 10–20 minutes a day, reward-based, 6 printable tools.
See the plan →Not sure yet? Take the free 2-minute quiz
Keep the script where you can see it
Write the 3 steps on a card and keep it in your treat pouch. When you know exactly what to do, you stay calmer. Your dog notices.
Quick answers
What do I do if an off-leash dog runs at my reactive dog?
Stay calm, step between the dogs, toss a handful of treats behind your dog or toward the other dog, and calmly walk away. Firmly ask the owner to call their dog.
Should I pick up my small reactive dog?
Only if you can do it safely. Lifting a dog can make the other dog jump up. Stepping between and walking away is often safer.
Can I carry something to stop a charging dog?
Many owners carry a handful of treats to toss as a distraction. Some carry a citronella spray; check local rules and use it only as a last resort.
Educational content from the CalmWalk team. Not veterinary or behavioral advice for your specific dog. If your dog has bitten, or behavior changed suddenly, see your veterinarian and a certified professional.