First of all — we don’t know the other dog. Is he or she nervous? In training? Reactive? Recovering from surgery? Brilliant with dogs off-leash but uncomfortable on-leash? We simply don’t know.

Leash greetings are actually quite confrontational. Dogs have no natural flight option when they’re physically restrained. What might look like a “quick hello” can feel very intense to them. And since many pet owners (with the best intentions!) aren’t fluent in subtle canine body language, misunderstandings can happen fast.

For me, consistency is key. If sometimes my dog is allowed to greet and sometimes not, that becomes confusing and frustrating. So the rule is simple: we don’t greet dogs on leash. Ever. Clear rules create calm dogs.

Dogs also don’t need to say hi to every dog they see. Neutrality is far more important than forced socialising. I want my dog to be able to walk past other dogs with confidence and indifference — that’s real freedom.

And let’s be practical for a moment…

You’re at the vet. Your dog greets every dog in the waiting room — and potentially picks up three extra “souvenirs.”

You’re handed a beautiful carton of eggs at the market… and there goes your dog lunging forward to say hello. Scrambled eggs, anyone?

Choosing not to do on-leash greetings isn’t unfriendly. It’s responsible. It protects my dog, respects yours, and keeps everyone safe.

Polite passing > chaotic meeting. Every time.

 

Judith
Barkbuster training&treats