While traveling overseas, I’ve noticed two things that remain constant. My love for dogs and a willingness to happily rush right up to them, and the dogs’ inability to understand English (outside of English speaking countries) and/or my motives or intentions. During this last trip to Europe, I’ve encountered lots of dogs—and wanted to hug every one of them. BIG NO-NO!
So how does one greet a “strange” dog? Assuming the dog is on a leash and its owner doesn’t speak your language (or any other language you’re comfortable in speaking):
[1] First smile at the owner. If they smile back, you’re on the right track. In fact, ignore the dog and make sure you’re showing your relaxed best. This way the dog doesn’t think of you as being a threat.
[2] Only GLANCE at the dog—do not look into its eyes. Most dogs consider that a challenge and it can set them off.
[3] Happily, most people in the world understand the term “OK?” So, ask the “OK?” to the owner and glance at the dog, then back at the owner. Usually owners of dogs (as pets) are very friendly to other dog lovers. If they say “Oui”, “Ja”, “Si”, “Da” , “OK” or some language that sounds like what’s used as “yes” in their country, then the next step is to:
[4] Make sure you’re NOT directly facing the dog, but instead turned slightly sideways. Dogs seem to prefer people who aren’t THAT interested in them.
[5] Let the dog approach you, not the other way around. If they’re interested, they may wag their tail or look at you with curious eyes. If they’re growling or raising their lips above their teeth, it’s best to say a cheery “bye-bye”, “adios”, “au-revoir”, “ciao” or “sayonara”, and move on.
[6] Next, standing perfectly straight, (not crouching over the dog which can seem intimidating to them) slowly offer your hand, wrist side down in a slightly open fist and let the dog sniff your hand if they’re interested, then slowly move your hand to their shoulder, neck or chest—not the top of their head. (Some dogs REALLY don’t like that so don’t chance it too quickly).
[7] If the dog is NOT interested and backs away from you, it’s only because it’s uncertain about you or the situation. Don’t pursue it further. Smile at the owner, exchange pleasant greetings and cheerfully walk away.
It’s best to let dogs be dogs; and like humans, some are outgoing and friendly, while others aren’t. Remember when traveling, you really DON’T want to ruin another dog owner’s day by having their dog attack you. Even worse, you don’t want to have to take up valuable travel time by going to the hospital for stitches.
So, be careful and considerate when meeting ANY new dog—whether in your neighborhood or in a foreign land. And, happy tail wags to you wherever you go!
HOOF!
So how does one greet a “strange” dog? Assuming the dog is on a leash and its owner doesn’t speak your language (or any other language you’re comfortable in speaking):
[1] First smile at the owner. If they smile back, you’re on the right track. In fact, ignore the dog and make sure you’re showing your relaxed best. This way the dog doesn’t think of you as being a threat.
[2] Only GLANCE at the dog—do not look into its eyes. Most dogs consider that a challenge and it can set them off.
[3] Happily, most people in the world understand the term “OK?” So, ask the “OK?” to the owner and glance at the dog, then back at the owner. Usually owners of dogs (as pets) are very friendly to other dog lovers. If they say “Oui”, “Ja”, “Si”, “Da” , “OK” or some language that sounds like what’s used as “yes” in their country, then the next step is to:
[4] Make sure you’re NOT directly facing the dog, but instead turned slightly sideways. Dogs seem to prefer people who aren’t THAT interested in them.
[5] Let the dog approach you, not the other way around. If they’re interested, they may wag their tail or look at you with curious eyes. If they’re growling or raising their lips above their teeth, it’s best to say a cheery “bye-bye”, “adios”, “au-revoir”, “ciao” or “sayonara”, and move on.
[6] Next, standing perfectly straight, (not crouching over the dog which can seem intimidating to them) slowly offer your hand, wrist side down in a slightly open fist and let the dog sniff your hand if they’re interested, then slowly move your hand to their shoulder, neck or chest—not the top of their head. (Some dogs REALLY don’t like that so don’t chance it too quickly).
[7] If the dog is NOT interested and backs away from you, it’s only because it’s uncertain about you or the situation. Don’t pursue it further. Smile at the owner, exchange pleasant greetings and cheerfully walk away.
It’s best to let dogs be dogs; and like humans, some are outgoing and friendly, while others aren’t. Remember when traveling, you really DON’T want to ruin another dog owner’s day by having their dog attack you. Even worse, you don’t want to have to take up valuable travel time by going to the hospital for stitches.
So, be careful and considerate when meeting ANY new dog—whether in your neighborhood or in a foreign land. And, happy tail wags to you wherever you go!
HOOF!