How To Approach a New Dog
How you approach a new dog you see could go a long way toward determining a fun encounter or a dangerous conflict. These days there are many public places where dogs are permitted, including stores, parks, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and even airplanes. If you are on the street or in one of these places and see a cute dog, your initial reaction may be to run up to it for cuddles. Before giving in to those cuteness-inspired instincts, stop and think. Like you would never consider hugging a strange child on the street, should you approach a new dog?
How To Approach a New Dog?
There is a correct way to greet a new dog. Just as with humans, it requires etiquette, respect, and common sense.
Ask the Owner for Permission
If you see an unattended dog, your best bet is to keep your distance and wait for an owner to return. Also, ask for permission to speak to the dog. Be aware that there are many possible reasons for a “no” answer, and respect them.
- This dog may not be friendly with strangers
- The dog could have anxiety issues
- This dog might be in training
- The owner might be in a hurry
- This dog could be a service companion that you should not play with during “work time.”
Allow the Dog To Approach You
Avoid invading the dog’s space, and don’t force your attention on them. Then, stand calmly and still with your hands by your sides, or crouch down to greet the dog. While common practice is to hold out your hand for the dog to sniff, even this could cause anxiety for some dogs and trigger a bite in defense.
Avoid Staring or Making Eye Contact
If you think about it, you don’t stare at another human when talking to them. Ideally, you shouldn’t stare at a dog, either. Relax your face and don’t look the dog directly in the face when greeting.
Don’t Approach a Dog From Above or Behind
Most dogs find it stressful to have people lean over them or reach down to them. Startling a dog by approaching from behind can also cause them to bite. Instead, reach from the side or under the head to pet a dog.
Don’t Reinforce Bad Behavior
Don’t allow a dog to jump on you, even if it doesn’t bother you. Turn away or back up and calmly say “no” or “sit.”
Watch Out For Warning Signs
Dogs have specific body language that communicates when they are scared, stressed, or doesn’t want to be bothered. However, do not approach a new dog if they show the following:
- Pinned back ears
- Closed mouth
- Licking lips
- Blinking excessively
- Turning away
- Wide eyes showing the whites
- Backing away, cowering, or hiding
With dogs welcome in so many places and coming in contact with many new people, dog owners should exercise caution to avoid liability for dog bites. Canine Liability Insurance is a wise investment to protect owners and their dogs.
About Dog Bite Quote
At Dean Insurance Agency, we’ve been providing protection to dog owners since 2012, with more than 10,000 policies issued. Our underwriting criteria and years of experience providing this coverage enables us to offer competitive and fair policy premiums. Our policies are available in every state except Alaska & Kentucky. The quote is free and there is NO obligation to purchase!