Dog versus fox

[NoMercy]

I keep spotting a fox in my front garden but haven't been to bothered up until now. Last night I let my dog (who's the same size and colour as the fox) into the back garden and, within moments, he was scratching at the door like a lunatic, desperate to get into the house. Once inside, he was clearly agitated, and ran through to the living room to look out onto the front garden. Many other dogs in the surrounding houses were barking wildly. My question is:

Was Alfie scratching at the patio doors to get through the house and chase the fox, or was he terrified and seeking shelter?

And, which one is more likely to be frightened of the other?

Thirdly, would a fox likely attack a dog?

[RATTER15]

A fox is extremely unlikely to attack a dog. many years ago I hunted fox with a lurcher, she looked exactly like a small greyhound, she would catch and kill a fox in a few short shakes. Many terriers have taken on a fox, the fox just wants to escape.

You have no need to worry about a fox in your garden in that respect, I would be more worried about my dog catching Mange if it is prevalent in your area.

[B00]

I'd have thought a fox will retaliate if cornered though?

[RATTER15]

Yes boo, it will defend itself if it cant get away, the fox found its way into the garden it will certainly find its way out before most dogs get a second look at it. Remember the fox will out run and or out manoeuvre "nearly" every dog, it is a natural athlete.

[Frank97]

My dog often chases foxes when out in the fields (but never catches one), I've never seen one turn and stand it's ground, so no I don't think one would attack your dog. When he came into the house he was more likely trying to chase it off imo.
Like Ratter said fox mange is the only thing to worry about really.

[RATTER15]

NoMercy, your dog was almost certainly trying to get to the Fox!!

[NoMercy]

Thanks, guys. That's quite reassuring.

[rsvp]

unless your dog is very young and/or small, it's unlikey to be hassled by a fox but if the fox is cornered then it will defend robustly!

[nannybooby]

Foxes do attack dogs ,where we lived before one crept up on our yorkie and I shudder to think what would have happened if the OH haddent seen it and grabed winston and taken him indoors.

[emmie]

I don't think the fox will attack the dog, i once watched in fascination at
a cat and fox having a game outside in the garden, they stalked each other, then had a sniff, chased each other around for a bit, and then went their separate ways.

[boxtops]

I didn't know you'd got Alife back, NoM - when did that happen?

[sallybb]

An injured fox if cornered will attack, humans no exception.
Your dog probably had a quick flea count and decided to scarper ;o)

[RATTER15]

nannybooby, A yorkie! Bless :-)

[nannybooby]

Ratters now have two little yorkie porkies

[NoMercy]

Alf's been living with me since last Christmas, Boxy.

[RATTER15]

I reckon a yorkie will see off any fox, spirited little blighter's, fantastic ratting dogs!!!

[boxtops]

I missed that bit, NoM!

[Zeuhl]

Last year one of our 'garden foxes' was found cowering and whining cornered in the conservatory by our very old, toothless and overweight cat.

If there is food out for them they usually sit in a corner of the garden waiting respectfully if our small dog or one of the cats is out and about.

I don't think you should worry too much.

[ladybirder]

I wouldn't worry. A Yorkie is not to be messed with.

[RATTER15]

Ladybirder, its two Yorkies!! Fox, welcome to HELL!!!!!

[ladybirder]

OMG the mind boggles. LOL