Not all dogs want to say hello on a walk. As we touched on earlier, it is not a natural way for dogs to greet each other. For many reasons, not all dogs are comfortable meeting strange dogs while on leash.
Which brings us to DINOS. (Dogs in Need of Space). These guys have an amazing website and loads of information about dogs. Having rehabbed a bait dog, a totally feral pack dog, and having a reactive dog that is reactive from being attacked on dog walks, I really appreciate this site. DINOS politely explains that not all dogs have the same needs when they meet and interact with people and that it is in everyone’s interest for people to respect and understand how to approach dogs when they are on leashes.
From the DINOS (Dogs in Need of Space) website:
In order to create safe communities for everyone, Team DINOS needs your help! Here are some guidelines for polite leash etiquette that will benefit all dogs:
1. Obey Leash Laws: Outside of a dog park, or otherwise sanctioned off-leash area, please leash your dogs. In many places, this is the law, designed to keep all of us (including your dogs) safe.
2. Ask Permission Before Approaching: Stop moving and ask, “Is your dog friendly?” or “Can my dog say hi?” before you allow your dog to greet us.
3. Listen to our Response: Give us time to respond. If we say “No”, please don’t be offended.
4. Respect Our Space: If we move to the side, so that you can pass, do not let your dog approach us. Please shorten their leash and continue walking. Not all dogs are comfortable meeting strange dogs while on leash.
5. Do Not Give Chase: Please do not allow your loose dogs to chase us. Additionally, if we abruptly turn the other way or cross the street, we do not wish to interact with you or your dogs (for one of the many reasons listed above). Please do not chase after us, asking to meet our dogs.
6. Lock your Leashes: If you walk your dog on a retractable leash, please retract and lock your leash, so that we may pass by without engaging with your dog. This applies to indoor spaces as well, such as the vet’s office and pet stores.
7. Be Kind: While we understand that these guidelines may be frustrating at times, please refrain from arguing, name calling, or judging others. One day, due to illness, trauma, or other circumstances, you too may find yourself the loving owner of a DINOS. Please be compassionate.
8. No Matter How Nice You Are, the Rules Still Apply: Dog lovers and those with friendly dogs often think they are the exceptions to these rules. Please understand that we know our dogs best and must make choices based on their well-being. It’s nothing personal. We believe that you and your dogs are really nice, but we ask that you respect our personal boundaries.
In return, the DINOS pledge to uphold the following standards:
- We promise to be responsible dog guardians, focused on creating safe interactions for all dogs, by following leash laws, as well as training our dogs and using safety tools (such as muzzles), if necessary.
- When it is possible, we will always create distance between your dogs and our DINOS, so that you too can pass us without incident.
- We will tell you that our dogs are DINOS and that we need space. No mind reading necessary.
The DINOS thank you for your support! Together we can create safe communities for ALL dogs! (end of list from DINOS)
None of this is to say that dogs don’t love to hang out and to walk together. We have been on some great pack walks, but that is another post all together!
So now you know how to interact with loose dogs, aggressive dogs, and DINOS on your walk. Get your dog bag, grab your dog, start your walk and get ready for some standing around. One of the best parts of walking your dogs in our neighborhood is all the neighbors you see on the way. No walk is complete without a couple of stops with a little porch sittin’ and wine drinking under the lawn sprinklers – on the designated watering days of course!
We hope that by sharing our knowledge and our experience you will have nothing but positive dog walking experiences in your future. Remember, a little planning and preparation will make for great dog walking in an urban neighborhood. And when you see me walking my reactive barking dog around the neighborhood, remember #7 from the list – don’t judge, be kind – we’re a work in progress.