Maggie's Farm

This generally works with dogs too. Basically ignore their barking and display of aggression and do whatever it is that you intended to do and they will usually calm down. Do watch out for the occasional dog who didn't get the message.

As a landlord I would occasionally have to go to a hose where the tenant had and aggressive dog. I would carry a garden shovel (the kind with a handle grip about four feet in total length). If the dog is approaching keep it between you. If you are approach hold it in two hands (I don't mean aggressively approaching because as stated above you are ignoring the dog. But make no mistake the dog knows what you have in your hands and becomes cautious or docile.) Most dogs that are likely to bite will bite once and back off. The thing you want to do is dissuade them from making that first bite.