Imagine your family is sitting in the living room watching a movie, the front door opens and a total stranger walks in, sits down on the couch, grabs the popcorn bowl from and asks “hey guys, what are we watching?”
Now, likely, the stranger wouldn’t even make it to the couch before you kicked them out.
Just as humans have manners and etiquette when introducing themselves, so do dogs.
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
Last month, the Okanagan Pet Project and Lululemon Kelowna teamed up and got a big group of dogs and their owners together for a hike to Paul’s Tomb on Knox Mountain.
There was easily over 20 dogs there, and we did not have a single issue.
Why? Because we made sure to introduce everyone properly before hooking everyone up to a leash and heading out.
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
The following couple rules can save you some ‘unfriendly’ dog moments:
1. Neutral location
Dogs are territorial creatures so taking their “territory” out of the equation can often lead to a much friendlier introduction. That’s why often you will find meeting other dogs out for a walk over in your house or yard may go much smoother.
Remember that you are also their territory. So instead of standing still while your dogs are meeting, keep moving around so that you don’t create a boundary spot for your pooch to guard.
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
2. Leashes or no leashes?
The answer depends solely on your dog. If your dog is reactive and you anticipate tension, walk dogs on leashes with a big space in between so they can get used to each other’s presence.
Then cross over so they can both smell where the other has been.
Keep in mind, leashes cause tension. So, when your dog is ready to meet another, it’s best to drop leashes and allow them to do their dog thing without the added stress. Keep moving, keep supervising!
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
3. Verbal cues
If you see things getting a little tense a quick clap of the hands is often enough to break any tension between them.
Same goes for positively enforcing when everyone is playing nicely. Your pup will be happy to know they’re doing a good job playing with everyone.
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
4. No Toys
Toys create an atmosphere you want to avoid when dogs are with other dogs. Let them all hang out and interact with each other rather than adding a layer of competition.
5. Chill out!
Your energy is mimicked by your dog. If you’re nervous and worried about meetings with new dogs, the likelihood of there being an incident is increased.
Photo Credit: OK Pet Project
You still need to keep an eye and be vigilant about reading body language and ensuring everyone is playing nice, but you shouldn’t be on edge about it.
If you can worry about keeping things calm and neutral for the doggos, they don’t have to worry about stressing out with new friends around.
If your dog is reactive, start small with one other submissive dog rather than throwing them into a dog park pack.
Slow and steady, and as always, loads of patience.
Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook and Instagram @okpetproject, and, as always, you can read more articles like this on our website www.okpetproject.com.
