The Do's and Dont's of Approaching a Strange Dog

If you’re a dog lover, one of the best parts of being out and about town is seeing all of the pups! Though saying hello to our furry neighbors can be the highlight of our day, strange humans touching them is not always a dog’s idea of a good time. Read on to learn some tips and tricks to maintaining safe and friendly relationships with human and canine neighbors alike. 

1. DO Ask the handler first. 

If the dog is in a yard or on a walk, with the handler around, ask and then WAIT for an enthusiastic yes from the owner. Make sure you wait for the response, and bonus points if the owner then asks the dog if they want to say, and gives them the option to decline. 

2. DON'T Be offended if the owner-or dog-declines!

There will be another pup to pet! It’s not personal, the handler just wants to protect you, and their dog. 

3. DO Keep your hands to your sides. 

A common myth is that you should put your hand in a fist or offer a flat palm. However, it’s best to avoid putting your hands near the dog at all, until they’ve had a chance to sniff you.

4. DO Wait for the dog to offer it’s side.

   A dog who is comfortable with touch will rub the side of it’s body against your legs, and will be pretty floppy and loose. A dog that is approaching you head on or is stiff needs more time to warm up to the situation before you pet it. 

5. DON’T Reach over the dog. 

Overall, you should avoid petting a strange dog’s head, ears, or reaching over it’s body. Give that pup a nice front shoulder or back pat. 

6. DO Keep it brief. 

Pet for about 10 seconds, and then allow the pup to opt back into the attention….or better yet, let the dog and handler continue on their walk. 

7. DON’T Assume previously met dogs are okay to approach. 

Just like us, dogs have good and bad days. Ask the owner’s permission every time to say hi, when the dog is not one you see often, even if you’ve previously met. 

 And ALWAYS remember that while most dogs are friendly and people loving, it’s always best to be cautious, especially with dogs you don’t know. Seeing dogs in your neighborhood and striking up a conversation with their handler can be a great way to meet people, and build community, even if you end up just admiring the pup from a distance!