I was in a pet store a while back, and there was a lady in the back of the store trying to socialize her newly adopted french bulldog. She had 2 of them. I watched as people walked up to the dog “oh my god, it’s so cute” and they try petting the dog. The dog recoils and it starts striking out in fear. This is purely setting a dog up to fail – this is why I always advocate for dogs.
This is not respecting a dog or respecting a dogs space. I wouldn’t walk up to you and say “oh my god, your child is so cute” and start petting it on the head. I have more respect than that for you and your child. But dogs are expected to take it and not bite. Really?
I walked over, said hello – and asked the owner if it’s ok that I try to work with her dog. I squat down a few feet away, totally calm and let the dog decide. I’m letting the dog take the time to check me out, to see if I’m a threat – do they smell anything about me that is a threat. The newly adopted female Frenchie was between the owners legs and it was clearly scared.
Her male is unsure, but more socialized. He chose to come forward to sniff my hands. This is not a “pet the dog” moment. Let the dog make the choice – if he wants affection, he will move forward and let you know. And he did because I gave him time – gave him respect.
Now, the other dog is watching all this. Her “brother from another mother” is trusting me to take affection. This is called learning through social cognition. Her brother isn’t getting hurt, he’s getting affection and it’s his choice. What do you think she did? She followed suit. I gave her time, she chose to move forward and in the end, took the affection that she craves. The owner was stunned – but now she knows how to advocate for her dog.
I have never been bitten or had any negative reactions through showing a dog simple respect.