How to Approach a Dog

HOW TO APPROACH A DOG DONT GET IN THEIR PERSONAL SPACE Maintain a comfortable distance of about 3 feet. Don't get too close to unfamiliar dog's or hover over them because they will feel threatened. Don't put your hand up to it's nose to let it sniff you. Instead, reach out your hand a short distance and allow the dog to come forward. WATCH THEIR EYES If you are familiar with the dog, and it's eyes appear smaller, it can mean he or she is frightened or stressed. if they appear larger than usual, it can mean a dog feels threatened. When greeting a new dog, don't stare directly as it may be perceived as an act of aggression. Another sign of aggression is when a dog is looking at someone with it's peripheral vision and the whites of their eyes are visible. An intense, direct stare from a canine is most likely indicative of aggression. Should one be on the receiving end of such a stare, slowly avert your gaze. WATCH THEIR MOUTH •... Signals of aggression are exposed teeth, retracted ears, growling and rounded eyes. Most think dogs are being aggressive everytime expose their teeth. It might be a submissive grin if it has a lowered head, squinting eyes and it's whining which is a way to communicate friendliness. ADAMS DAVIS P.C. ACCIDENT TRIAL ATTORNEYS https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/canine-body-language http://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/preventing-dog-bites-by-learning-to-greet-dogs-properly