What do you do about unleashed dogs on bike trails?

R

Radman

New member
I used to say something, but have never had a positive outcome. I once ran over an unleashed dog and the owner blamed me. It's starting to be a problem and I really don't think it's enforceable.
 
Keep in mind that owners need a place for their dogs to run free. Many take advatage of open space trails to fill this need believing their dog won't be a problem for any of the few who they encounter.
That being said:
If the area you are riding in is managed (state/national park, trustees of reservations, etc) contact the ranger or managing group and register a complaint. They're more likely to react to a problem if it is brought to their attention.
As for the owner, politely asking them to leash their dog is about as good as it gets.
As for the dog, just keep on riding if you can. Keep your cadence up so that if he does go for you, there's a good chance he gets a heel in the face rather than a mouth full of calf. If you feel threatened, dismount and keep your bike between you and the dog until the owner can get him under control.
If it's frequent, carry pepper spray. Use it if you feel threatened. If my dog got sprayed by a biker, I'd be more likely to leash him when I hear one coming than wait until there's a problem.
 
when im biking and a dog is in front of me i slam on my brakes so it makes a loud skiding noice. most dogs jump out of the way
 
Have you called the dog warden. You are not allowed to have unleashed dogs on most trails. I got bit buy a dog along a trail once and didn't know the address to report it but someone else did and I think someone from the trails origination went to check it out and the dog bit them. The guy ended up having to get rid of the dog. You can carry some pepper spray.
 
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