To be a bit worried about going to someone's house where they have massive dogs?

[blubberball]

We've been invited to a garden party, but I'm not sure how to get across my concerns about the massive dogs my friend had last time we were there. I don't see her very often, so I'm not sure how many dogs she currently has, but last time I was there, there were 2 huge bully type dogs. It was just us, so I was able to stay calm and was able to keep the dogs calm. This time, it's going to be a party with at least 20 people I imagine, and I just have this gut feeling that it could be a recipe for disaster. I love animals, and I'm generally not scared of dogs, but just read so many stories about bully dogs killing people. I can't get the image out of my head of how they lock their jaws on to something (or someone), and violently shake and don't let go. I don't want to offend her, but how would other people handle this situation?

Fear of dogs is not irrational.
I wouldn’t be near these dogs.
BIL got a massive dog, no ta!

Your fear is rational. Every week there is a new story about a person being killed by a bully. They may seem like they have a good temperament but they are bred to be killers, it is in their instincts and can turn on a sixpence. I would not go to the party and I would be telling my friend why as well. If they have a party with the dogs running free and someone is killed or attacked, she will be arrested and her dogs will be killed.

I wouldn't go either. The risk of aggression can increase if certain factors are at play; if there is a pair of dogs (male and female), if the female is about to come into season, or if their routine changes (such as introducing 20 strangers into their territory, and giving those 20 people alcohol or a plate of food.)

Another dog attack at 1640 this afternoon.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwyd673k2dyo

The stories don't reflect the numbers, though. I'm all for sensible dog handling, but the media has whipped this dog fear into a stupid frenzy.

Surely your friend will be sufficiently aware to keep the dogs away fom her guests. Ask her. If not you are busy that day.

I’m really scared of dogs, I wouldn’t go to any party with dogs like that!

I really can’t stand most dogs.

I would just tell the truth and say you’re sorry but you won’t be joining as you’ve realised recently that you feel worried in the presence of large dogs. You can always add on the fact that you know her dogs are friendly but you can’t get the worry out of your mind. I don’t think that is offensive to her and it’s also the truth and a fair reason not to attend. ☺️

I love dogs, I work exclusively with dogs. Not a chance in hell I would go to someone's house if they had a bully breed. Great dane, Irish wolfhound, newfoundland, I'd be there in an instant, try and stop me, I adore large breeds, but bully breeds? Not a chance. Those dogs have NO place as family pets. They are all 'soft as anything' until suddenly they aren't, and there is very little anyone can do to stop them. They are a ticking time bomb of pure muscle and power. I'd be honest too, if you get one of those dogs, you need to understand that you've ostracised yourself.

Bull mastiffs are a bully breed but are perfectly fine. Tbf the OP doesn’t even know what breed of dogs these are and hasn’t bothered to ask. It’s probably best she doesn’t go.