Just because a dog looks friendly, be cautious. Stray dogs can be very frightened of people. Some people are very cruel to stray dogs, and the dog may assume all people are that way. If the dog is in pain or is injured, he/she may bite out of fear, regardless how friendly he/she may be normally.
Dogs can't talk, right? Wrong! You just don't listen to us or rather, watch us. We communicate through body language. I'll translate for you. Panting, helicopter tail wagging, and ears up are usually signs of a dog that is happy to see you. A tight mouth, ears back, fur standing up, growling, and a stiff tail wag usually means "back off." This could mean the dog is scared or aggressive and could act on that.
Don't try to push the dog by putting your hands on him/her. Also, do not try to carry the dog unless it is very small and does not seem frightened or annoyed with you. A leash (or a make-shift leash) is your best option. If you put the dog in your car, you should use a crate.
Be aware of the fact that a stray dog has been outside without care for potentially a long time. He/she could be infested with fleas, worms, parasites, or any other illness, some of which are very contagious to other dogs. Do not put your own dogs in jeopardy.
If you want to keep the dog, take him/her directly to the vet and get an exam before going home. Regardless of what the vet says, clean your car, the crate, food/water dishes, blankets, or anything the dog touched before allowing your dog to use it. This also includes YOU! Your clothes, your shoes, your skin, anything the stray dog touched could be potentially harmful to your pup.
The dog may be a lost dog. Just because there is no collar does not mean he/she does not have a home. Collars and tags come off. Have the vet check for a microchip or a tattoo. Call local shelters, the police, or anyone that may be contacted when looking for a lost dog. You may also want to place an ad in the paper for a found dog.
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