5 simple rules to follow before you say ‘Hello’ to a dog

If a dog gets up and moves away, please do not start chasing it. Just let the dog be.

Dogs are wonderful creatures. The only trouble is they can’t converse with you

Dogs are wonderful creatures. The only trouble is they can’t converse with you. People who are pet owners or pet lovers will beg to differ, but at times even they don’t know how to greet a dog.

We tend to reach out to a dog in the same way we approach a human being. The problem with this is that at times this interaction turns sour and dog may bite the ‘friendly’ human. My observation comes from a recent event that I got the opportunity to attend in Bangalore where over-friendly humans were trying to engage with overtly-nervous dogs.

So what is the best way of saying hello in the doggy world? Here are the 5 simple rules of greeting a dog.

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Rule 1: Ask the owner – NEVER pet a dog without the owner’s permission. The pet owner is the best judge of a dog’s temperament and can guide you based on the situation at hand. Even if you are meeting the same dog again during the course of the day, always ask the pet owner if you would like to pet the dog again

Rule 2: Let the dog make the first contact – It is important that you do not approach a dog; instead, let the dog come over and sniff. When a dog approaches you to sniff, stand still and leave your hands by your side. Also, make sure you do not stare in the dog’s eyes.

Rule 3: Keep the same level – Bending over a dog may make them feel nervous and scared of you. It is advisable that you squat down. Again, let the dog come to you and pet the dog only if it looks relaxed and at ease. It is also advisable to offer chin scratches and belly rubs as against a head pet.

Rule 4: Never rush to a dog – A quick move may scare a dog and lead them to turn away or snap at you. Another behaviour attribute is that the dog stiffens and becomes completely motionless. If they do this and give you a hard stare, do not put your hand forward in a friendly manner. Just be still and let the dog come to you.

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Rule 5: Do not get over friendly – We love to hug and kiss our dogs but a lot of dogs hate this behavior in humans. Even when a dog seems friendly and relaxed, it is advisable to be gentle and not to confine the dog’s movement.

Most people get extremely excited and forget to notice the dog’s body language. It is of utmost importance to be aware of the dog’s tail and gaze. A wag or a loose hanging tail is better than one between the legs. Also, the dog’s stare needs to friendly and welcoming instead of a hard, cold one.

Always remember, you do not have to pet each and every dog you meet. A low growl, darting and fearful eyes and turning the head away are some signs that the dogs wants you to back-off. Also, if a dog gets up and moves away, please do not start chasing it. Just let the dog be.

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