petducator
5 min+30 XP

How to handle sidewalk encounters with dogs and people

Other dogs and people: when to say hi and when to keep walking.

  1. 1

    Default: keep walking. Not every dog wants to say hi. Walking past with a treat is a top skill.

  2. 2

    Always ask. Before approaching someone: “Can they say hi?” Respect the no.

  3. 3

    Cut it short if there’s tension. Stiff bodies, pulling, or barking: wide curve and goodbye. No “let’s see if they get used to it.”