How to Greet a Dog

by Jamie Bozzi, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KSA, KPA CTP, ACDBC, CNWI, CC
Professional Dog Trainer and Certified Canine Behavior Consultant

Although it is very tempting to run up to a dog to pet him. It is very important to ASK THE DOG if he would like to interact with you.

We want to help dogs feel safe. Here’s how you can ask a dog:

1. STOP several feet from the dog & remain still, hands at your side – be a tree.
2. WAIT to see if the dog wants to come over.
3. If the dog comes over, TOUCH softly and only the chest for 5 seconds.
4. STEP AWAY and let the dog decide if he wants to interact again.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES

1. doggonesafe.com – Dog bite prevention through education
2. getdogsmart.com – Diggity Dog puppet show book and online games for kids
3. familypaws.com – Promoting safety for families with dogs (helpful new parent articles and resources)
4. thebluedog.org – Story and interactive CD game for preschoolers and parents to learn about safety around the family dog at home
5. thefamilydog.com – Dog training for the whole family
6. dogsandbabieslearning.com – This is a wonderful blog written by Madeline Gabriel. She was the head of behavior and training at the San Diego Humane Society and is currently writing a book on kids and dogs.

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

1. Good Dog! Kids Teach Kids About Dog Behavior & Training by Evelyn Pang & Hilary Louie
2. Happy Kids, Happy Dogs by Barbara Shumannfang
3. Living with Kids and Dogs… Without Losing Your Mind by Colleen Pelar
4. Raising Puppies and Kids Together – A Guide for Parents by Pia Silvani & Lynn Eckhardt

CANINE BODY LANGUAGE

Visit Jamie’s site at Smrtdog.com

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