How to and not to Introduce Yourself to a Dog

As a dog trainer I meet a lot of dogs as you might imagine.  Since I really don’t know the dog, or how they’ll react to strangers it’s important to be mindful of my greeting posture.  Whether you’re at the dog park, or over at a friend’s house you can adopt this same greeting posture to ensure your safety and help the dog be more at ease.  If your dog is fearful of strangers, it’s also a good idea to share these do’s and don’ts with those that interact with your dog.  You’ve probably heard that you should greet a dog by letting them sniff your hand.  But from the dog’s perspective reaching out to their face is actually considered rude, especially if you’re staring at them!   This is one of many don’ts I’d like to suggest to you today!

Don’t

Face the dog

Stare at the dog

Lean over the dog

Reach over his head to pet him

Lean over from the waist

Stick your hand out and put it in the dog’s face

Hug a dog

Pet a dog if they’re showing anxiety or stress

Approach head-on

Do

Assume a non-threatening position

Turn the side of your body to the dog

Avoid eye contact

Keep your hands at your side

Approach sideways slowly at a relaxed pace and use your peripheral vision

It’s actually best if the dog approaches you

Always ask the owner first if it is okay to pet their dog

You can pet the dog if he’s relaxed, approaches you and/or rubs against you to ask for your attention

Pet gently

It’s not a bad idea to abide by the five second rule when petting an unfamiliar dog.   After five seconds stop.  If the dog asks for more that’s fine, but give the dog a choice in the matter.