Originally Posted by
goldfinch
Baloney. One time does not train the dog. And even if I trained the dog (which I would try to do if it was a regular route) a dog expecting food is a lot friendlier and less aggressive dog than a dog being territorial.
BTW, I have spent a lot of time training dogs. I have seen the treat method with hotdogs work. Ultrasonic repellers are useless. Don't stare down a potentially aggressive dog. Don't smile at the dog (teeth are aggressive displays). Stand sideways in a blocking position, with the bike between you and the dog, as still as you can. Speak firmly.
Contago: Poisoning the dog is cruel and ugly behavior. If the dog stops to take your poisoned bait , why poison him in the first place? Revenge on the dog?
Correct.
I have done it, it works. Also if the dog is moving around adjust your position to still be sideways to the dog. This is a display of a wider easy target in a dog fight. Head on is a smaller target in a fight, that is a challenge. Do not look the dog in the face either, that is also an aggressive signal. Don't even look at him. If you can out last the dog he may just quit. If you try to ride again, dogs will probably run after you they typically chase things that seem to be running. Walking away is possibly safer. Also when standing sideways, take a deep breath and let it out and relax your muscles. The dogs can sense a lot of tension. If you stay sideways and the dog takes it easy, you can slowly move and take the dogs space. This means you are in charge, but don't want to fight. It works great.
Being motionless is not as important as relaxed muscles in the body. There is a lot of info out there that is more help.