Do raccoons attack dogs? Protect your dog from wildlife dangers

Raccoons are one of the most common urban animals, and it’s not surprising if you’re concerned about one of them attacking your dog. Things can go wrong quickly in nature, although it’s important to know just how often and how things can go wrong. Raccoons attack creatures occasionally, but a few things separate a raccoon attacking a dog and, say, a squirrel. So, do raccoons attack dogs?

Do raccoons attack pets?

Yes, raccoons do attack pets. While it’s not the most common thing, it happens pretty often. Raccoons aren’t likely to seek out any pets unless they carry the rabies virus; they’ll more than happily respond to a nearby pet or dog. Unfortunately, both situations happen, meaning raccoons may seek out pets at night. It’s not too familiar, but it’s still a possibility.

More often than not, a raccoon will attack a pet in response to something. Whether raccoons believe their family is threatened or feel threatened, they’ll respond. More specifically, check out the next section as to why they attack animals.

Afterward (or beforehand), if you encounter a raccoon around your property, it is better to call an animal control professional at C&C Wildlife Control before anything adversely happens.

Why do raccoons attack animals?

Raccoons are susceptible animals. At the slightest idea of danger, these animals will immediately go to work defending themselves. So even if you or your pet isn’t attempting to harm it, a raccoon will quickly respond. Whether it’s trying to scratch your eyes out or bite you, it’s not good either way. Here is an excellent resource at raccooninformation.com to learn more about raccoon behavior.

Still, that’s not the entire story. Raccoons often father (or mother) younger raccoons, meaning that they might be additionally reactive. After all, when defending their youth, they’re ready to employ any tactic possible. These tactics might include scratching or biting a dog, which it might misinterpret for a wild animal.

These issues happen a lot, meaning that, yes, raccoons do attack dogs. Unfortunately, dogs are often misunderstood as coyotes or other predators, and raccoons will quickly strike first. Although they provide a warning in the form of a hiss or scream, dogs and other pets often take that as a challenge. So, even if the raccoon doesn’t attack first, it might fight back in response to a dog’s challenge.

To help your pet avoid being attacked, you need to know about their normal habitat routines. For example, searching “how do raccoons sleep” can help you spot likely locations for their dens. You’ll know when to avoid a suspicious pile of leaves. Remember what we said before, a scared raccoon will attack your pet even if they mean no harm.

How do raccoons attack?

These animals attack with their claws and their teeth. While they’re not very large, they’re incredibly sharp and can cause extreme damage to a small area. Unfortunately, that would include the eyes, nose, or mouth, which raccoons will target.

Unfortunately, raccoons also carry rabies occasionally, meaning that an encounter could leave your dog with damage and potential viruses if they’re not up to date on vaccinations. Either way, things generally aren’t great. Fortunately, these claws are tiny, and raccoons usually attempt to injure, not kill, animals.

Most times, you’ll likely deal with scratches or little stabbed areas. These aren’t too immediately dangerous, although they can quickly become infected or transmit a virus to your dog or pet, like rabies. However, things can go wrong fast, even with small raccoons, so it’s important to know what to do before any potential attack.

What should I do if my dog is attacked?

Immediately take your dog to the vet near you and call the animal control department. Each city/town/county has a specific number to call, although you must contact it as soon as possible. Even if nothing major has occurred, things can go south very quickly.

That’s why it’s essential to be proactive. We recommend that you either keep from taking your pet outside at night (the most common time for raccoons) or work defensively. Use lights and look ahead, keep away from potential raccoon-infested areas, and be careful. Again though, if anything does happen, call someone immediately.

Roadmap to optimal dog health: Navigate from A to Z with confidence