ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Local parks are great places to take your dogs, but that doesn’t mean they’re great places to let you dog off leash. This video was captured in Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska, a park known to frequently host both black bears and moose. This mother moose and baby were harassed by an off-leash dog, and though it’s unclear how the dog got there (the people behind the camera don’t seem to know who owns the dog), it’s a good reminder that keeping your dog on leash when out in nature is incredibly important.
Moose are not normally aggressive towards humans, but they can certainly become so if they feel threatened. According to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, dogs are especially viewed as enemies to the large animals, and moose will occasionally go out of their way to kick them, even if leashed.
“Moose view dogs as enemies and will sometimes go out of their way to kick at one, even if the dog is on a leash or in a fenced yard. Give moose an extremely wide berth if you have a dog with you and don’t let your dog chase a moose. When moose are on a road, driveway, or trail or when they are lying under a deck or up against a house, they are often trying to rest. When people repeatedly approach them or chase them away, moose become stressed and agitated. Each moose has a different tolerance level, but if they are harassed enough, many moose will respond aggressively.“
Colorado Parks and Wildlife on Staying Safe Around Moose:
- Moose see dogs as predators and will attack aggressively
- Females will defend their calves aggressively
- Be aware of your surroundings, do not surprise a moose
- If a moose reacts to your presence, you are too close
- Take photos and watch moose only from a distance
- Moose are not easily spooked and do not fear humans
- Always keep your dog on a short leash and under control
- Consider leaving your dog at home
- Bulls will defend their territory at all times, with increased aggression during the fall mating season in late September through November