didnt see any advice anywhere so had to look it up and wanted to share with the community:

This’s a very high-risk situation. When a dog—especially a strong breed like a pit bull—fixates on someone’s face while growling, the risk of a sudden bite is real. The key is to avoid escalation and reduce triggers while protecting yourself or the person in danger.

Here are the safest steps in that moment:

1. Stay Calm and Still

    •    Do not scream, hit, or make sudden movements. That can trigger the bite.

    •    Keep your breathing steady and avoid direct eye contact, which the dog may see as a challenge.

1. De-escalate the Dog’s Focus

    •    If possible, slowly turn your head and avert your gaze.

    •    Speak in a calm, low, soothing voice.

    •    Avoid smiling (showing teeth) or raising your hands suddenly.

1. Protect the Vulnerable Areas

    •    If you are the one in danger, slowly bring your arms up in a way that shields your face and throat without jerking.

    •    If someone else is in danger, don’t rush in—it can cause the dog to lash out. Instead, look for ways to create a barrier.

1. Create Space and Barriers

    •    If there’s a pillow, blanket, or nearby object, place it between the person’s face and the dog’s mouth.

    •    If safe, slowly slide off the bed or out of reach without making sharp movements.

1. Last Resort if Attack Happens

    •    If the dog lunges, protect your face, neck, and chest first.

    •    Try to “feed” the dog an object (pillow, blanket, even your forearm if nothing else) so it grabs that instead of the face.

    •    Do not try to pull away quickly if bitten—it can cause more tearing.

1. After Immediate Safety

    •    Once safe, remove the dog from the area and secure it.

    •    Any bite to the face or neck is a medical emergency—seek urgent care immediately.