Protect yourself from dog incidents: What every delivery driver should know

The sun’s out, the kids are home, and the gates are wide open.

Summer means more people—and more pets—outside. For delivery drivers, it’s peak dog bite season.

These incidents are on the rise. The average claim jumped 18% last year, costing over $69,000 per bite. That’s not just paperwork—it’s lost time, medical bills, and stress.

Drivers are especially at risk. In 2024, California, Texas, and Ohio led the nation in bites, with cities like LA, Houston, and Chicago topping the USPS list. If you’re delivering in one of these areas—or honestly, anywhere—you need to be alert.

Here’s how to protect yourself.

Before you step out of the van

Think like a detective when you pull up to a stop:

• Check delivery notes or the customer profile for any dog warnings.
• Scan the yard—look for loose dogs, toys, food or water bowls.
• Make noise (shut the door loudly, honk once) and listen—any barking? A dog sprinting toward you?

If you see or suspect a dog is nearby, do not approach the property without taking extra steps:

• Text or call the customer and ask them to secure the dog inside.
• Say: “I’ll place your package at the drop-off location. Please wait until I’ve returned to my vehicle before retrieving it.”
• No response? Mark it unsafe and move on. 

If a dog appears mid-delivery

It happens fast. Here’s what to do if a dog catches you off guard:

• Don’t run. Running triggers the chase instinct—and you’re not winning that race.
• Stay still and stay calm. Sudden movements make dogs nervous or aggressive.
• Avoid eye contact. You can keep the dog in your vision, but don’t stare.
• Put space between you and the dog. Use your package as a barrier if you need to.
• Use firm, clear commands. “No,” “Stay,” “Back,” “Stop.”
• Once it calms down, slowly step sideways—not backward—to your vehicle. Keep the dog in your peripheral vision.

Know the signs: What a dog’s body language tells you

Understanding body language gives you a second chance to avoid conflict. When in doubt—give space.

Make it stick: Share this in your next safety briefing

Dog bite prevention is more than common sense—it’s a critical part of staying safe on the road. And with peak season, long hours, and unfamiliar routes, it’s easy to forget the basics.

Use it in your next daily briefing. Post it in the break room. Make sure your drivers know what to watch for—and what to do when a situation gets hairy.