A dramatic incident occurred in Thal in the Graz-Umwelt district on Monday afternoon, December 29, 2025. What was supposed to be a quiet walk took a fatal turn within a few seconds and ended fatally for two small dogs.
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A 61-year-old woman was walking near the golf course with her 85-year-old mother and their two leashed Yorkshire terriers. At around 1:00 p.m. the women were walking along Hardter Strasse when two large St. Bernards suddenly approached from behind. The dogs ran free and initially passed the group. Their 66-year-old owner called after them, but to no avail.
Attack without warning
Shortly afterwards the situation escalated. The two Saint Bernards, aged seven and two and a half, suddenly turned around and attacked the terriers on a leash. The two women reacted immediately and tried to protect their dogs with their own bodies. Nevertheless, one of the strong dogs jumped at the 85-year-old. The force of the impact caused her to fall and sustain an injury to her hand.
At the same time, the St. Bernard owner also tried to pull her dogs away from the terriers. But the attack could no longer be prevented. The two ten-year-old Yorkshire terriers suffered serious bite injuries. One of the dogs died at the scene, the second succumbed to his injuries a short time later on the way to a veterinary clinic.
Witness helps, police investigate
A 63-year-old man who happened to be nearby immediately recognized the situation. He intervened, provided assistance and notified the emergency services. Only then could the Saint Bernards be put on a leash again.
The 85-year-old was taken to the Graz hospital for further treatment. Her daughter also suffered a minor bite injury to her hand. The police are now investigating suspicion of negligent bodily harm. It is still unclear whether the St. Bernards broke free from the leash themselves or whether they were deliberately released. Initial statements contradict each other, which is why further investigations are underway.
Great concern, tough demands
While the police are investigating the suspicion of negligent bodily harm and are still clarifying whether the dogs were deliberately running without a leash or had gotten loose, a clear picture is emerging online. Many dog owners react with sadness, anger and incomprehension.
Numerous voices speak of an avoidable tragedy. The accusation of irresponsibility is made again and again. It is particularly often criticized that large and strong dogs are walked without a leash, even though their owners cannot hold them in an emergency. Others report similar experiences during walks where loose dogs and a lack of control led to dangerous situations.
A recurring theme is the well-known sentence of many owners – mine doesn't do anything. Many commentators see this as a dangerous misjudgment that is only questioned after something has already happened. There are correspondingly loud calls for stricter controls, high fines, consistent leash requirements and, in some cases, permanent bans on keeping dogs.
At the same time, some voices are calling for differentiation. They remind you that it is not the race that is the problem, but the person on the other end of the leash – or without a leash. Emotions still run high, which shows how deeply the incident affects many people.
Responsibility remains central
The tragic death of the two terriers has reignited a debate that has long accompanied many dog owners. How much freedom is responsible. Where does negligence begin? And how can people and dogs be better protected in public spaces?
What do you think about this incident? Have you experienced similar situations or have clear ideas about how such tragedies can be prevented? Share your opinion in the comments and discuss respectfully with the community.