They stay on a short leash and for the most part, they bark and scare peeps more than anything. Ruger, would lay under the trailer (tied to the bumper hitch) and would not make a sound until someone touched the truck or trailer. He would then jump up and BARK. Yeah, I am sure there have been grown men that peed their pants, but, they would defiantly back off. Very rarely would anyone get close enough to get licked.....LOL. But, yeah, I also have a sign made for the trailer that says THE DOG BITES. He was always gentle with the kids, just would scare them cause he would "come out of know where". Yes, all dogs must be on a leash at any barrel race!!! <DUMMY ME> <DUMMY ME>