Why do dogs bark at bicycles: it's a matter of instinct
Why do dogs bark at bicycles: it's a matter of instinct
Cyclists and scooter riders know from experience that dogs react aggressively to moving targets. And dog owners are trying to stop their pets from rushing into vehicles. In fact, there are reasons for this behavior of dogs, although they are not always obvious to people.
Dog handlers have several explanations for dogs’ dislike of bicycles. It is important for dog owners to understand why dogs attack cyclists in order to eliminate the cause of the behavior.
Hunting instinct. People on bicycles, scooters or roller skates move much faster than other pedestrians. This activates the hunting instinct in dogs, and they rush in pursuit of prey. This is most typical for hunting and herding dogs. Therefore, when they see a flock, cyclists are recommended to get off the vehicle and drive it in their hands.
A game. Some dogs perceive transport as a big toy that must be chased. Perhaps such a dog is simply bored and has nowhere to put his energy.
Fear. A common reason why dogs bark at cyclists is fear and a desire to drive the vehicle away from their territory. Tall vehicles with moving wheels frighten the animal. A person on a bicycle is positioned higher than usual, and from the dog’s point of view poses a greater danger.
Annoying sound. The mechanism in the wheels of a bicycle or scooter produces a quiet and unpleasant grinding sound. The human ear does not notice it, but dogs hear it perfectly with their acute hearing.
Shepherd instinct. Some dog handlers explain this behavior of dogs as a shepherd's instinct - the dogs are trying to return a runaway sheep to the flock.
Self-affirmation. Young dogs may attack large and moving vehicles to prove their leadership in the pack.
This is why dogs bark at cars and bicycles, even if they are inferior in size.
Not only cyclists, but also animal owners suffer from dogs chasing vehicles. This animal behavior should be stopped before the pet gets run over.