(11-17-2015, 09:17 AM)Ruth Wrote: Yes, we should be careful about being intimidating to a dog. The first thing I do with a dog is to extend my hand. That was the first thing I did when I met my Suzy for the first time. She licked my hand.
You have it right, Ruth. A hand, gently extended, towards their muzzle, or slightly lower, while keeping the body a step back. That way a strange dog can sniff you, the gesture isn't a threat (not over the top of their body), and they feel they have the freedom to choose what to do next.
I meet lots of strange dogs on walks. I always greet them that way. I have never found one who didn't like that. I also respect what they are showing me. Some want to see who you are, then move on. Some want to kiss you to death! (or cover you with mud! LOL!)....which I don't mind as I am not too clean to start with! haha!
