How To Greet A Dog For The First Time
When we visit a house, when we meet a friend on the street or even when we are about to adopt a new family member, certain precautions must be taken. So, in this article we teach you how to greet a dog for the first time, to avoid accidents or problems.
Analyze the dog’s personality before greeting him
Getting close to a pet or street animal can be a very common situation. However, we must take some precautions. As with people, we should also “introduce ourselves” to dogs, to avoid inconvenience.
First, we should know that each dog has its own personality (yes, just like humans). Therefore, there are some who value contact more than others. Much also depends on the socialization or training that the animal received as a puppy.
The animal’s past can also influence its reaction to certain movements. For example, if he has been beaten, he may not like being touched or stroked. The state of mind of the animal is also very important when it comes to saying goodbye. For this reason, we must pay attention to the position of the tail, ears and mouth.
At the slightest sign of discomfort, avoiding physical contact is the ideal solution. If we ignore it, he will try to demonstrate his discontent by other means: growl, show his teeth, bark, stare, prick his ears, straighten his body, etc.
There are also dogs that do not even “warn” of their discomfort : they bite without even batting an eye. For this reason, it is necessary to be very respectful of animals and make sure that the contact is slow and sweet.
Tips for greeting a dog for the first time
It is a risk to approach or greet a dog incorrectly. It is essential to consider how to behave in these situations. Pay attention to the following tips:
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Greet the master first
Imagine walking down the street and meeting a friend who took his little dog for a walk. Instead of starting by saying goodbye to the animal, you may want to say hello to your friend first. Because? Because the animal will realize that you ” come in peace ” and that its owner trusts you.
Don’t forget that dogs focus on their owner’s emotional well-being by analyzing body language. If they “agree” with the treatment received by the human, they will have no major problems interacting with him.
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Ask the owner for permission
It is a question of respect and education, especially if we are not very familiar with the owner of the animal. Before saying goodbye to the dog, ask if you are allowed. The owner can tell you, for example, what his temperament is like, what he likes and dislikes, whether it is a good time or not, his reactions to contact with strangers, etc.
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Don’t look him in the eye
People look directly into each other’s eyes when they talk or greet each other. But for dogs this is not normal. They have a “personal” code: looking them in the eye is a sign of domination. So, try not to be too direct in your gaze when you greet him for the first time.
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Do not be afraid
Dogs know when a person fears them. This, rather than being good for humans, can be counterproductive. Because? Because the animal will increase its defense mechanisms thinking it is facing an aggressor. Do not approach with shaking hands or expressing your fear, because he will be able to “smell” it and maybe attack you.
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Avoid front approach or tilt
To greet a dog for the first time, it would be good to stand sideways, to show that you are not a threat (from the animal’s perspective, settling in front of him could be a danger).
On the other hand, it is best to squat, to be up to the animal, but not rush to pet it, as it may be frightened or threatened.
