We’ve all heard it at the dog park, on the beach, out on walks: "It’s OK, my dog is friendly!" While it’s great to have a sociable pup, this phrase can be problematic, and here’s why. Even if your dog means no harm, not every dog (or person) wants that interaction. Some dogs may be fearful, reactive, or in training. For these dogs, an unexpected approach, even from the friendliest dog, can trigger stress, anxiety, or aggression.
Not All Dogs Enjoy Other Dogs
Some dogs prefer their personal space. They might be shy, anxious, or recovering from trauma. Others may be reactive and need careful management. A friendly dog running up to them can cause tension and even fights, despite good intentions.
Training in Progress
Many owners are working on training recall or reactivity and need controlled environments for their dogs to learn. A surprise encounter with your playful dog can disrupt their progress, setting them back in training.
Safety Matters
Even friendly dogs can unintentionally cause harm, jumping on people, knocking over small children, or frightening someone who’s uncomfortable around dogs. This behaviour, though innocent, can create unpleasant experiences and erode trust between dogs and owners.
Your Dog Might Not Always Be Friendly
Even the friendliest dogs can have bad days; they might be stressed, unwell, or simply overwhelmed. When they’re forced into interactions, it puts them at risk of developing reactive behaviour over time, turning those “friendly” greetings into unpredictable encounters.
The Solution? Be Mindful and Respectful
Instead of assuming it’s OK for your dog to run up to others, "ask first" Keep your dog on a leash until you’re certain both dogs are comfortable with the interaction. By respecting other dogs’ boundaries and allowing owners to manage their dogs’ space, you help create a safer, happier environment for everyone. Friendly dogs are wonderful, but so are polite and respectful interactions!
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