Greetings are most likely to go well when dogs do not feel trapped, so if possible, introduce the dogs off-leash. When dogs are on-leash, the greeting is not on their terms because they are being forced to be close to each other and lack the freedom to move away.
Introduce on neutral territory.
Each dog should be walked separately on a leash, and each walker should have a bag of high-value treats or food broken into small pieces. At first, walk the dogs at a distance where they can see each other but are not too provoked by each other's presence.
For dogs that are already friends and get along well, meeting on leash might be just fine. However, if your dog is meeting a new dog for the first time, a face-to-face meeting on leash is often not a good way to introduce dogs.
Dogs are naturally social creatures who often love to play together, and for most dogs, meeting other dogs when out on walks is extremely common. Some dogs are happy to be sociable, while other prefer their own space and will be more comfortable with dogs who can respect their boundaries.
To make yourself appear as friendly as possible, turn your body slightly to the side and look at the dog with your peripheral vision. In dog language, head-on approaches and direct eye contact are threatening, so avoid them if possible. You can also kneel down to the dog's level so you aren't looming overhead.
Despite some variations, the basics tend to be the same. Dogs move toward each other in a calm and relaxed way, often approaching from the side or along an arc rather than head-on. Sniffing is a huge part of the process, and dogs may take an interest in any area with glands, pheromones or other scents.
Touching is a sign that animals not only get along well but also that they trust one another, said Nelson. "If they are sleeping with each other and snuggled up together — really truly making contact with each other — then that's an obvious sign that there's true affection between the animals," Nelson explained.
Proper Dog Walking Etiquette on a Sidewalk
Hold tightly to the leash so your dog does not jump on anyone. Be aware of other people and animals walking nearby, especially if you'll pass near them. Pay attention to people's lawns and property and keep your dog from using them as a potty.
Warning signs include stiffening, low growling, avoidance or hard stares. If you see these behaviors, calmly move the dogs away from each other. Remember, some dogs do not like the company of other dogs, and they should never be forced into a greeting.
CONS OF LETTING YOUR DOG OFF-LEASH
and you really never know how other dogs/animals will react to your dog. This can potentially lead to fights and other unfortunate situations. Bad habits can be formed like chasing objects, running quickly in other directions (even if your dog comes back to you)
Or is it ok to let him walk in front of me on occasion? There's no one right way to walk your dog — in fact, the only real “rule,” if you will, is that the leash should always have some slack. In other words, your dog shouldn't be pulling you along, and you shouldn't be pulling him.
Stop or Block the Dog's Approach
Step forward and put your hand out in a stop motion. Use your body to block space and access of the approaching dog. Continue to stay between them and your dog as you make your way out of the area. Block and startle.
Put two leashes on that dog (perhaps one on a collar and one on a harness, or two on a collar can work, too. Walk side by side, first with the second person holding their second leash more than you are holding yours, then eventually dropping the second leash and only grabbing it if needed for extra support.
Start on neutral territory where you have plenty of space, like a park, open field, or quiet street. Start on opposite sides of your space walking the same direction. When one dog looks at the other one, they get a treat. Keep walking until they are no longer focused on each other.
what is this five second rule? Well, consider your friend with paws before walking and simply place the back of your hand on the ground. If you cannot hold your hand on the ground for five seconds, it is too hot to walk your dog!
This test can be conducted by walking to black asphalt and laying the back of your hand down on the pavement. If you cannot hold it there for at least 5 seconds, then the asphalt is too hot to walk your dog on.
Dogs do this when the other dog is not paying attention. ' If the dog she is nipping is not a dog you trust, do not allow the nipping on the leg. ' This could lead to a conflict or fight.
Before choosing a new dog, think about what type will fit in with your existing family members - both two and four-legged. Does your home and yard have space for another dog? Do you have a large or small dog, and do you want to add a large or small dog? Do you have time to walk, feed, and play with another dog?
Signs of dominant behavior in dogs:
Resistance to voice commands. Aggressive response to eye contact or verbal correction. Food guarding or other aggressive behavior while eating. Persistence about leading the way on walks or through entryways.
When dogs don't feel able to move away – which they may not when in physical contact with us – they may resort to telling us to back off in less desirable ways. Give dogs a way of “opting in” to social contact by using the “3-second rule” of petting. Pet for no more than three seconds, then stop.
The Three Second Rule: -Three seconds is the maximum amount of time an initial greeting should last. Three seconds is 'one elephant, two elephants, three' then space apart or walk away. Many owners make the mistake of waiting that bit longer after three and the meet and greet then turns unpleasant.
Universal canine body language
Pawing is the universal doggie sign, “Hey you! I want to play! Do you wanna play with me?” It's how dogs communicate with each other. One dog pawing another dog is a sign it's time to play.