Here's What You Need To Know About Approaching A Dog

Many of us are dog lovers, even if we can’t have a dog of our own for whatever reason. But if you’ve never owned a dog before, then perhaps you may wonder – just what is the appropriate way of approaching a dog?

The Methodology

Here are some things to keep in mind when meeting a new dog.

1. Don’t hug the dog or bodily restrict their movement.

2. Don’t pet a dog that’s restricted in some way, such as behind a fence. They may feel trapped in such positions.

3. Always let the dog initiate contact first. Turn your body to the side and then squat, kneel, or sit beside them.

4. Move slowly, both in how you approach the dog, and how you touch and interact with the dog.

5. Pay attention to the dog’s body language. If it seems like they’re uninterested or fearful of interaction, do not engage.

6. Know what are universally good spots for pets. You should always ask the owner first, but generally the chest and shoulders, underneath the chin, and the base of the neck are safe spots.

At the end of the day, you should always prioritize both the safety and comfort of you and the dog first.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay