When the dog goes first, problems can ensue. This is how leashes get tangled and dogs get riled. Things escalate in a hurry unless you lead and are in a position to remove your dog from the fray if necessary. In combustible situations, we all have the option of flight, fight, or freeze. When a dog is on a leash, flight is not an option, and in close proximity to another dog, freezing is not very viable, either. Fight is the only option. People who let their dog go first are now following their dog, which is precarious. This nonchalant approach often gives dogs the impression that they are the gatekeeper and protector, which appreciably ups the ante. Dogs do not relish the role of protector; rather, it makes them anxious, fearful, and aggressive. A dog in this position may think, “We’ve got incoming” every time it encounters another living thing around its owner.
Dogs react in many ways when they see one of their fellow brethren or sistren; excited, playful, fearful, aggressive, submissive, among the gamut of dog behaviors. They may crouch down, bark, or jump in playful or aggressive fashion, roll on their backs submissively, shake and cower in fear, or just stay cool as a cucumber. Irrespective of their reactions, it is our job to monitor the introduction.
■ Create space. About ten feet away from the unfamiliar dog, ask your dog to sit. This teaches patience and halts any rambunctious behavior.
■ Approach the new dog with your dog slightly behind you.
■ Be sure your dog is sitting as you reach out to allow the new dog to sniff your hand.
■ If your dog is calm and you like the new dog, invite your dog in.
■ Keep a close eye. If one dog plays too rough or goes under the hood to sniff with too much enthusiasm, the other dog may growl or snap to set a boundary. This is natural and no need to be alarmed. Some dogs need to learn the manners of sniffing. Although they may mean well, even well-behaved dogs will go on high alert or simply react when another dog gets up in their grill, so to speak. Any mild escalation can usually be dealt with by separating your dog and having him sit for a few moments. Such time-outs give dogs a chance to learn proper introductions and play. However, if either dog appears stiff in posture, excitable, or heads in for a face-to-face, use your leash to create space. In urgent situations, step in with your knee to create space.
In general, people are horrendous at dog introductions. They may ask if your dog is friendly, and, before you’ve even answered, their dog can be all over yours. Practice good etiquette by always being first so everyone can be comfortable. When a dog goes eye-to-eye with another dog, it can be a challenge. In this rare circumstance, use your leash to pull back and your knee to intercede between the dogs. Risking a bite on a bent knee is small potatoes compared to breaking up two dogs locked on each other.
People with friendly dogs often drop their leashes whenever their dog is sniffing another. They may appear to be off to a good start, but tensions can escalate, especially when only one dog is on leash. Be extremely mindful in monitoring.
For a dog that is shy or nervous with people, treats can actually go a long way. That said, they are not to be used in making dog introductions as problems can arise. The combination of treats and being petted is a potent way to form positive associations. Save for the treats, the principles in meeting strangers are the same as in meeting other dogs.
■ The key is to be first. Your dog will sense that it is safe.
For a couple of months:
■ Ask new people to introduce themselves with a treat.
■ Practice this technique on and off the leash.
■ Practice this inside and outside your home.
The goal is to socialize and expose your dog to a wide variety of people, places, and things. This is how dogs develop confidence and a sense of security. A dog that is wary of people, and even a dog that acts out aggressively, is generally lacking confidence, which can be traced to unfamiliarity. Let your dog meet people of all sizes, races, creeds, and kinds. I mean that. Fear of the unknown can wreak havoc, so please observe your dog in order to be a good chaperone.