
You can’t resist the urge to pet every dog you meet? Here are some suggestions for ways to calmly approach dogs and their owners.
Itâs Sunday morning and youâre out doing some window shopping. But it turns out the adorable Beagle bounding towards you is way more interesting than the sweater on sale in the shop window. If youâre a dog lover, itâs tempting to stop everything and shower the animal with love. Does this sound like a familiar scenario? Be aware however that your hugsâeven though they might be welcome to the dogâmay be a source of irritation for the owner. Follow these tips for positive interactions with dogs and their owners.
Gauge the ownerâs attitude
Time is limited. While juggling tasksâmaking dinner, washing up dishes, doing laundryâa dog owner may have to shorten their walk with their pooch. If this is the case, your interjection may monopolize their precious time and be frustrating. Before approaching them, take a couple of seconds to observe the personâs attitude. Do they seem rushed? Or even exhausted? Is their facial expression stern? If the situation doesnât seem welcoming, itâs probably a good idea to keep walking and save your loving attention to the next canine you encounter.
Keep it short and sweet
If, on the other hand, you sense an openness, thereâs nothing stopping you from approaching the dogâs owner. Youâre interested in the dogâs complete life story right down to their favourite treat? It might be a good idea to reign in your enthusiasm. Despite good intentions your interlocutor may be exasperated by a barrage of questions. Be polite and keep it brief. Remember: youâre probably not the only person punctuating their walk with questions.
Always ask for permission
A cute dog can be truly irresistible. But itâs important to always ask for permission before petting a dog. Some dogs have socialization and adaptation issues. Others may be distracted by being pettedâwhen theyâre being trained, for instance. Whatever the reason, allowing their dog to be petted is not always a priority for the owner (or, indeed, the dog itself). Note, of course, that you should never pet a guide dog, who must be focused on their owner at all times.
No treats without permission
As a dog owner, you probably have a few treats in your pocket, ready to reward your dog. They may well be organic and gluten-free, but itâs never acceptable to offer them to a dog without the ownerâs express permission. Some dogs have allergies or may be following strict diets and it may be against the ownerâs wishes.
With this said, most people are thrilled to be complimented on their companion animal and to talk about them. By being careful and considerate, your interactions are bound to strike a happy note!