“Please Stop Petting My Dog”. Mabel and Taco, my two small rescue dogs, are friendly and typically love attention. That said, I can’t always predict how they’ll react to an eager stranger who wants to say hi. For example, if you reach for Mabel’s paws or approach Taco wearing a long coat, it’s a big no-no. While I love letting fellow dog lovers pet my furry friends, boundaries are important.
Should You Really Be Petting Strangers’ Dogs?
We’ve all been wanted pet a fluffy Pomeranian or give a Golden Retriever a belly rub at some point. There are those dogs that makes you stop in your tracks and most dog parents would be lying if they said they didn’t feel the same. Yet, as compelled as I might be to pet a new dog, here’s why I always pause before doing so.
Not All Dogs Like Attention
All dogs love to say hi, right? All the dogs in popular movies like Secret Life of Pets and A Dog’s Purpose are so friendly. While this is often true, it’s not always the case. Some dogs don’t want to be touched by their humans, let alone someone they’ve never met before! Just like people, dogs can be shy too.
Discomfort is commonly seen in rescue dogs who have had a rough past. My very first dog as a kid was a puppy mill survivor, Zoe. She was afraid of humans because no one had been nice to her before she met us. So, we had to have patience to show her that we wouldn’t hurt her.
Other dogs are simply shy and prefer familiar humans over strangers. It’s not that these dogs don’t love humans, they just show affection in different ways. Additionally, we often put expectations on ourselves to have the “perfect” dog, but dogs are dogs! Remember that we’re all just trying our best.
Uncomfortable Dogs Could Act Out
Mabel and Taco are kindhearted dogs who don’t hold back from expressing themselves. Usually, this means running up to everyone they meet and rolling over for a belly rub. However, sometimes that expression means a long growl or a “tough guy” bark if something makes them uncomfortable. And they can be unpredictable… it could be balloons, cats, larger dogs, or aforementioned dreaded person in a long coat.
It may seem a little out of character for such small, cuddly dogs but these actions are the only way they can really communicate with us, humans.
Luckily, dog parents can usually tell when their companions are stressed. As you approach a dog, look for cues from the owner to see if your interest is well received. Many owners will politely tell others if their dog needs space.
Sorry, Not Everyone Wants You To Pet Their Dog
In some cases, it’s as simple as someone not wanting you to pet their dog. Oftentimes, this is can be a way to keep your dog and those around them safe. Or, it could simply be that the person is running late for work and doesn’t have time to stop. In the present day, it’s also likely that they might want to protection from illness, like coronavirus. Luckily, you’ll be able to find plenty of other dogs to pet.
Ways To Approach A Stranger’s Dog
Before you worry, meeting new dogs isn’t off the table forever. Of course, we all want to meet the clumsy puppy bounding down the street! Here are a few things to consider first:
- Always Ask First – You probably wouldn’t approach a human child without permission, so consider the same for dogs. Asking the dog’s family first is the best way to keep everyone happy and safe, especially the dog.
- Look Out for A Dog’s Behavioral Cues – Dogs tend to show cues before growling, barking, or biting. Pay attention to a dog’s behavioral cues to see if they’re happy. Subtle actions like shivering, tensing up, avoiding eye contact, or putting their tail between their legs could signify that a dog is feeling fearful or aggressive.
- Make the Dog’s Day! – The most important part of petting a dog is that it’s fun for the both of you. It can be exciting to get to know the dog by rubbing their belly, letting them give you kisses, or even playing fetch with them. As long as everyone is safe and the dog is having a great time, then it’s without a doubt a successful interaction.
Final Thoughts
When people ask before petting my dogs, it always makes me happier and more appreciative. If I’m not late for work and my dogs are behaving as usual then my answer will always be yes! And I’m sure many other dog parents feel the same way. I love when people show my dogs affection, but I love it even more when they’re kind and respectful about it.
If you’re on the other end and have a sensitive or shy dog, you’ve got options too! One idea is to carry treats around for when strangers ask to pet your dog. Instead of petting, you can explain that your dog prefers treats to pets!
So, next time you see an adorable little dog on the street, remember to ask before petting them. As long as you’re cautious and keep an eye out for a dog’s behavioral cues, you will be able to pet dogs ’til your heart’s content. And hopefully, you’ll make that dog’s day!
