What is the correct technique to use when approaching an unfamiliar dog?
Jacinto Wolf
2025-07-02 04:36:59
Count answers
: 10
When greeting a dog you don’t know or you’ve only met a couple of times so you’re not that familiar with each other, it’s really important to remember to ‘think dog’ and put yourself in their shoes. Always take a moment to decide if you really need to stroke the dog. Check. Always ask the owner if it’s OK to stroke the dog. If the owner isn’t around – perhaps the dog is tied up outside a shop, or is a little bit further behind the dog on a walk – don’t approach the dog or say hello until you’ve spoken to the owner and they have given you permission to do so. Call the dog to you by patting your legs gently and saying “hello”. This gives the dog a choice in whether they want to be stroked or not. Count three strokes on their shoulder and then stop, giving the dog the choice to move away if they wish. Tip: Even if the owner has said it’s ok to say hello, remember to check the dog’s body language is happy and relaxed before you go ahead. Always be calm, quiet and move slowly around pets. If the dog turns or moves away from you, they’re telling you they’d rather you didn’t stroke them just now, so it’s time to stop. If an owner says "no" when you ask to fuss their dog, respect that. Following the three Cs of Canine Choice will help keep you and the dog not only safe but happier too.
Meta Purdy
2025-06-24 19:22:54
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: 10
ALWAYS ASK THE OWNER Some dogs may be nervous, over-excited, or in training. Whether the dog is off or on-lead, it’s important that you ask the owner for permission first. If you see a dog tied up outside a shop with no owner in sight, then it’s best to leave the dog be.
KEEP CALM Don’t stare, shout at, or loom over a dog – all these things can seem confrontational to a dog, which might cause them to react or be afraid. Approach side on in a calm, gentle manner.
To approach a dog appropriately: If it’s a small dog crouch down to the dog’s level. Always have one foot flat on the ground so you’re able to quickly get up if needed. For a larger dog approach side on with your hands by your side and encourage the dog towards you if they are comfortable.
EASY DOES IT Allow the dog to approach and sniff your hand without reaching your hand out to them. If the dog is comfortable being in your space and showing relaxed body language, you can try to stroke them.
Gently reach out with the back of your hand and stroke the dog’s shoulders, chest or under their chin, which most dogs enjoy. Never go over a dog’s head first, as they cannot see your hand and may feel intimidated by this.
KNOW THE SIGNS If when you’re approaching a dog they start to turn away or look tense, it’s very likely that they are not comfortable having you in their space. It’s best to stop if the dog displays any signs that they’re uncomfortable.
Adele Schmitt
2025-06-24 16:24:04
Count answers
: 7
You should always ask permission from a dog’s owner before greeting their dog. Something as simple as, “Can I say hello to your dog?” will do the trick. If the answer is no, respect that and let the dog be. Once you’ve asked for the owner’s permission, it’s time to ask for the dog’s. Rather than sticking your hand in the dog’s face or reaching out for pets, wait for the dog to come to you. If the dog approaches you, they are saying they want to meet you. To make yourself appear as friendly as possible, turn your body slightly to the side and look at the dog with your peripheral vision. You can also kneel down to the dog’s level so you aren’t looming overhead. Dogs don’t shake hands like people do, they use their nose to say hello. So, hold your hand in a fist so they can approach and sniff if they choose.
Linwood Johnson
2025-06-24 14:58:13
Count answers
: 8
Always let the dog approach you, no matter how friendly it looks. This allows the dog to determine that you are safe before he interacts with you. Always ask the dog’s owner for permission to meet or pet their dog. Stay relaxed. Tension tells a dog that you are a threat, so try to keep your body language relaxed by smiling and staying calm. Let the dog sniff you and let him take the lead on what to do next. If at any time during the interaction the dog backs away, stop what you are doing. Offer to let the dog sniff your hand before you touch him. Then you can gently touch the dog on the shoulder, neck or chest, not the top of the head.
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