Exploring Bali’s stunning landscapes on foot is an incredible experience. But whether you’re jogging through a village or hiking a rice paddy trail, you’ll inevitably encounter local dogs. This guide provides practical strategies for runners and hikers to prevent and manage animal encounters on Bali trails safely.
Understanding Why Running Can Trigger Dogs
The first step in running in Bali safety is understanding animal behavior. Your fast, linear movement can trigger a dog’s natural prey drive or its territorial behavior. What a dog might ignore in a walker, it can perceive as a threat or an invitation to chase in a runner. This is why runners and hikers need a different strategy than those who are just strolling. To understand the local dogs better, read our guide to Bali’s street dogs.
Pre-Run/Hike Preparation: Smart Steps Before You Go
A little preparation goes a long way to ensuring your visit is smooth and enjoyable. Before you even leave your hotel, considering these few key points will help you avoid the most common mistakes visitors make.
Choose Your Route Wisely
When you first start exploring, consider sticking to more popular and frequently trafficked safe running routes in Bali. Dogs in these areas are more accustomed to the presence of people running and walking. As you get to know an area, you’ll learn which smaller gangs (alleys) have more territorial dogs.
Do Not Run with Headphones in Both Ears
Situational awareness is your best tool. You need to be able to hear a dog approaching, the jingle of a collar, or a warning bark. If you must listen to music, keep the volume low or use only one earbud.
Carry a Non-Harmful Deterrent (Optional)
This is a personal choice. Some runners and hikers feel more confident carrying a loud whistle or a small water spray bottle. The goal is never to harm the animal, but to create a sudden, surprising sound or sensation that can break their focus and deter a chase.
The In-the-Moment Strategy: A Dog is Approaching, What Now?
This is the core of dealing with dogs while running. If a dog approaches you aggressively, follow these de-escalation steps precisely.
- Stop Running Immediately. This is the single most important step. Continuing to run will only fuel their chase instinct and confirm that you are something to be pursued.
- Turn Sideways & Avoid Eye Contact. Face your body sideways to the dog. This makes you appear as a smaller, less confrontational target. Do not stare directly into the dog’s eyes, as this is a sign of a challenge.
- Create a Barrier. Use whatever you have—a water bottle, a backpack, or even your bike if you’re a cyclist—to create a physical barrier between you and the dog.
- Back Away Slowly & Calmly. Never turn your back and run. Continue facing the dog sideways and slowly back away until you are out of what it considers its territory. Once you are at a safe distance, you can turn and walk away.
What to Do in a Worst-Case Scenario: A Bite or Scratch
Even with the best strategies, incidents can happen. If you are bitten or scratched, there are two non-negotiable steps you must take immediately:
- Wash the Wound for 15 Minutes
This is your most critical first-aid action. Use soap and running water to thoroughly flush the area. This can significantly reduce the amount of virus at the site of the injury.
- See a Doctor for a Risk Assessment
After washing, a medical professional must evaluate the wound and discuss Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). To understand this risk fully, it is essential to read our complete guide to Rabies in Bali.
Don’t let the fear of dogs stop you from exploring Bali’s beautiful trails. By being prepared and knowing how to react, you can run and hike with confidence.
Be Prepared for Your Adventure.
Before you hit the trails, consider a pre-travel consultation to discuss preventative rabies shots. If an incident does happen, know that our clinics are ready to provide expert wound care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Runners & Hikers in Bali
Are there particular trails or areas known for having more territorial dogs?
Less-trafficked village roads (gangs) and rural paths are more likely to have dogs that are territorial. Popular, busy trails like the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud are generally safer due to the constant flow of people.
Is it safer to run or hike in a group?
Yes, absolutely. Dogs are less likely to confront a group of people than a solo individual. There is safety in numbers.
What time of day is best for running to avoid dog encounters?
Mid-day, during the heat, is often when dogs are laziest and most likely to be sleeping in the shade. Early morning and late afternoon are when they are most active.
I’m a cyclist. Does the same advice apply to me?
Yes, especially the most important step: if a dog starts to chase you, it’s often safest to stop, get off your bike, and use the bike itself as a large physical barrier while you back away slowly.
Will carrying dog treats help me make friends?
No, this is strongly discouraged. It can create food aggression, attract more dogs, and teach them to approach other runners, which can be dangerous.
What should I shout if a dog is chasing me?
Use a deep, firm, and loud voice. A sharp “NO!” or “GO HOME!” is more effective than a high-pitched scream, which can excite the dog further.
Are there snakes on the hiking trails in Bali?
Yes, snakes are present, but they actively avoid humans. The risk of an encounter is low. The best precaution is to stick to clear paths, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, and use a flashlight at night.
I love hiking but I’m very afraid of dogs. What can I do?
Consider hiking on very popular, busy trails. Alternatively, hiring a local guide is an excellent option. Local guides know the areas and the animals, and their presence alone often deters any territorial dogs.
Besides dogs, what other animals might I encounter on a rural trail?
You may see monitor lizards (biawak), squirrels, and many types of birds. In certain areas like the slopes of volcanoes, you might encounter wild monkeys. The rule is always the same: observe from a distance and do not engage.
If a dog just nips my running shoe but doesn’t break my skin, do I need to worry?
The rabies virus is transmitted through saliva into an open wound. If the skin is not broken, there is no risk of transmission. However, you should always check the area very carefully for even the smallest scratch or abrasion.
