Why do I suck in Penumbra?

[summit]

Hello guys I downloaded Penumbra Overture and I really wanted to play this game. When I first saw the dog it pissed my off. I really scared from the dog (I think because of the game atmosphere) and I said "It's just a dog" and take my hammer, jump into the dog.

First time I really take damage But I hit and the dog fall into ground. I think I killed him but it stand up again and hit me. Of course, I died.

Now I can even hit the dog. The hammer's control is so hard. When I try to hit, the dog hit me from back.

Do you have tactic(s) for me ? :'(

NOTE: I finished the game thanks guys.