Be aware – some dogs need space!
Many dogs need space – something I encounter quite often in my work as a professional Dog Walker.
A dog off the leash will often bound up to the dog I’m walking, with its owner running after it, yelling at the top of their voice for it to recall, often unsuccessfully, leaving the dog I’m walking trying to retreat or pull away.
Not all dogs wish to make friends and greet other dogs.
There are many reasons why dogs find it difficult to socialise with other canines: they may not have had interaction with other animals as a small puppy and thus haven’t had a chance to develop social skills, or, as an adult dog, they may have had a terrifying experience. Genetic factors can also contribute to anxious behaviour.
When walking your dog off the lead
If you notice someone walking their dog on the lead, please have some consideration. There could be a genuine reason why this dog is being kept on a lead.
They may be really happy to meet and greet your dog, but there is a chance they won’t return on recall if they’re off-leash.
They may be in training, or they can sometimes be grumpy.
Perhaps this dog is on the lead because it’s anxious around other animals when it can be stressful for the dog and the owner when another dog comes bounding over to greet them.
Keeping this in mind, always remember why you shouldn’t take it personally if a dog owner won’t engage with you when out walking. No matter how sociable your dog is, theirs may not be. Some sensitive dogs are labelled as being “reactive”, but you would feel the same if a stranger approached you and put out his hand to touch you. You would recall and pull away too. Dogs also should be allowed to enforce their boundaries by giving them compassionate training and allowing them more distance.
Reasons why dogs need space
- A puppy is being trained.
- An ill dog or one recovering from an illness
- Recuperating from an operation
- Elderly dog, perhaps frail and grumpy
- A female dog in season
- Timid and nervous temperament
- Restless and unhappy around other dogs
- Undergoing a behaviour and training plan
- Rehabilitation of a rescue dog
When walking your dog, always be in total control and be a responsible dog owner, even if you have a friendly dog. Before you, your children, or your dog begins to approach a dog you don’t know, please ask their owner’s permission if it’s Ok to approach and say hello, and then always wait for their response. Be respectful, responsible and use common sense.
I Need Space campaign.
An international campaign is currently running to raise public awareness that some dogs become anxious when approached. It is hoped that more publicity and awareness will give these nervous dogs the space and time to cope with the situation, eventually enabling them to cope with meeting and greeting other dogs. If you see a dog wearing a yellow jacket, bandana, lead, or ribbon, please give them space and don’t approach unless invited by their owners.
Give your dog space at home.
An important part of a dog’s routine is allowing your pet to have some personal space. This doesn’t mean locking your dog away by himself, but just like humans, our pets need time alone to recharge their batteries and refresh their thoughts and spirits. Give them time by themselves, with their favourite treats or toys, even if it’s just for 30 minutes a day.
Please be a responsible owner by allowing your dog more SPACE and following some simple dog etiquette. rules
Space is not only about dog-to-dog greetings. Some dogs also find unwanted physical contact difficult. My guide to understanding whether a dog wants to be petted looks at the quieter signals owners and visitors can watch for.
Finally, when out on walks, try to keep to the 3-second rule when meeting a new dog and respect the lead when out and about
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