I just wanted to make a quick point regarding when you are out and about walking your dog that Polite Paws feels quite strongly about, and that is letting your off lead dog run over to another unknown dog who is on lead.
There are many reasons why a dog may be on lead…..it could be old, ill, recovering from an operation, or it could be in training or scared/anxious of other dogs, and if a strange dog invades his/her space could react in a way that appears ‘aggressive’. The majority of aggression is rooted in fear. If the owner has the dog on lead I know that they would be so grateful if other dog walkers would do the same and prevent them running over. If the dog is in training or has anxiety/fear issues that the owner is working on, having a strange dog run over to their dog will most likely put their training back a step or two, as well as causing their dog unnecessary stress. Alternatively, if the dog is ill or has had surgery, your dog approaching could easily affect that dog’s wellbeing and recovery time.
So help us spread the word about these DINOS (Dogs In Need Of Space!) and if you can put your dog on lead when you see another dog on lead, you will no doubt get a gushing and heartfelt thank you from that owner!
