How to Greet a Dog: 7 Tips for a Positive Interaction
- Claire Jamis
- Dec 4, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 22
With the busy holiday season approaching, take the time to learn and use these seven tips for positive and safe interactions between your dog and guests!
When meeting a new dog, it’s essential to approach them in a way that respects and ensures their comfort and safety. Dr. Sophia Yin of CattleDog Publishing has provided helpful guidelines on how to greet dogs respectfully and safely.
1. Understand a Dog's Body Language
Before approaching a dog, observe their body language to determine if they’re receptive to interaction. Dogs communicate primarily through body language.
· A relaxed dog may have a relaxed, wagging tail (not too stiff or high), soft eyes, and a friendly, relaxed posture.
· In contrast, a dog that’s unsure or fearful might display:
o A tucked tail.
o A stiff body posture.
o Flattened or pinned back ears.
o Yawning or licking their lips (reactive signs of stress).
o Avoidance behaviors like turning or backing away.
o Avoiding eye contact.
2. Ask for Permission from the Owner
Always ask the dog’s owner for permission before interacting with their K9! Owners know their dogs best and whether they are comfortable with strangers. In addition, if the owner is nervous about your potential interaction with their dog, this may result in an adverse reaction from the dog.
3. Let the Dog Approach You
Instead of rushing toward the dog, allow them to come to you.
· Stand or kneel sideways, keeping your body relaxed and your hands to yourself.
· Avoid leaning over the dog and invading their personal space; this can feel intimidating.
· Avoid direct eye contact; it may be interpreted as a challenge by the dog.
· Letting the dog sniff you at their own pace shows respect and allows them to see you as non-threatening.
4. Offer a Gentle Greeting
If the dog appears comfortable and approaches you, extend a hand slowly, palm facing down or slightly curled into a fist. Let the dog sniff your hand before attempting to pet them.
5. Pet in the Right Places
Not all dogs enjoy being touched in the same spots. Most dogs are comfortable with gentle strokes on their chest, shoulders, and under the chin or neck. Avoid reaching over the dog’s head or grabbing their face, as these can be perceived as threatening or overwhelming.
6. Respect Their Boundaries
If the dog leans into you as you are petting them, they are enjoying your attention. If they pull away, stop immediately! If the dog backs away, lowers their body, or shows signs of discomfort, respect their boundaries. Forcing interaction can increase fear or lead to defensive behavior (including a bite!).
7. Keep Interactions Calm
Use a soft tone of voice and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the dog. Even friendly dogs can become anxious in high-energy or chaotic situations.
On the Other Paw: How NOT to Greet a Dog!
Final Thoughts
Learning how to greet a dog properly is critical to building trust and avoiding misunderstandings. By respecting a dog’s body language and boundaries, you can create positive interactions that benefit you and the dog.
Also, teach all children to follow these tips and supervise all interactions to ensure safety!
Remember: When in doubt, let the dog decide how and when to interact. A little patience goes a long way in earning their trust!
For more dog care and behavior tips, check out our blog here!
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Whether you’re busy at work, traveling, or need a helping hand, PANT DOG CENTER provides personalized dog daycare, dog walking, and training. We help dog owners in Philadelphia build happy, healthy relationships with their dogs.
CALL: 215-837-2997. EMAIL: contact@pantdogcenter.com today!
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