If you’ve been seeing more foxes in your neighborhood, you’re not alone. As deer, bear, and fox inch close to our homes during the day, it’s not unusual for a fox to be seen out and about in the daylight. Your first thought might be to be impressed by these beautiful creatures, but your second thought might be, will a fox attack a dog.
Odds are probably not, however, it’s a possiblity that responsible dog owners need to be prepared for and take precautions to prevent.  Most foxes weigh 15 pounds or so and consume mainly fruits, berries, mice, and rabbits. They are skilled hunters and physically gifted athletes. They can run around 30 miles per hour and jump up to six feet high. So, yes, your dog may be a possible target.
Will a Fox Attack a Small Dog?
Foxes do pose more of a risk to smaller pets than large dogs. While foxes are generally shy and avoid confrontations, they are opportunistic predators, and a chirpy Chihuahua or pernicious Pug might look like food, competition for food, or a threat to their young, according to The Humane Society of the United States. If your dog weighs less than 10 pounds, be especially cautious and vigilant if foxes settle in your neighborhood.
Will a Fox Attack a Dog on a Leash?
While you may feel like your dog is a sitting—or walking—target when she’s tethered to you, a fox attacking a dog on a leash is less likely than a fox attacking a free-range dog. While some dogs are reactive on leash when they feel threatened, in this case restricting movement is a good thing and makes it more difficult for your dog to initiate a fight with a fox.
Your presence to your leashed dog is valuable for two reasons: First, you’re able to intervene if a fox approaches and, second, foxes are wary of humans and will likely avoid a confrontation.
That said, there are still times when leashing your dog won’t prevent an attack. It’s unusual for a fox to be aggressive or fearless around humans, so if the fox seems unafraid, get out of there. The fox may simply be guarding pups or battling rabies.
If you do encounter a fox or other wildlife that doesn’t run away from you, try to:
- Put your dog on a leash ASAP (preferably, she was already on leash!).
- Back away from the fox (or other approaching wildlife) slowly. Never turn and run, which experts say make you look like prey.
- Keep your dog close to you or pick her up, if possible.
- Be very loud and fierce as you slowly back away, yelling in a deep, scary voice. If you carry a noise device, like a whistle or horn, use it.
- Make yourself appear as big as possible, such as if you’re wearing a hoodie or large jacket. Put the hood up and hold out your arms. If you happen to be carrying an umbrella, open it.
Be Careful Out There
However unlikely it is that a fox attacks your dog, prevention will put the odds even more firmly in your favor. Four ways to keep your pup safe are:
- Never leave a small dog unattended in your backyard, especially at dawn and dusk when foxes are most active.
- Close up any holes in fences to deter foxes from entering your property.
- If you live in an area with a high fox population, keep your small dog on a leash during walks.
- Regularly pick up dog poop around your property and when you’re walking your dog.
Foxes are beautiful creatures, and we are encroaching on their environment. It’s understandable that we see more wildlife on our walks with our dog. Be prepared by knowing what to do if you see a fox when with your dog.
