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Make a great first impression on your new furry friend
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They say a dog is a human’s best friend—and they’re right! But when meeting a dog for the first time, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure you, the dog, and the dog’s owner are happy and comfortable. Ready to meet your new best friend? Keep reading! We’ve got all the tips you need to make a great first impression on Rover—soon enough, you might just be shaking paws.
Things You Should Know
- Ask the dog’s owner for permission to pet their dog.
- Kneel or squat to get on the dog’s level, and then let the dog approach you.
- Give the dog plenty of time to smell you, and if they seem receptive, gently pet the dog under the chin.
Steps
Expert Q&A
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QuestionShould you crouch down when meeting a dog for the first time?Melissa Munoz is an Animal Trainer and the Owner of Pawsitive Perspective Animal Training. She has more than 16 years of experience in reward-based animal training, exotic animal management, and wildlife education. Melissa holds degrees in Animal Behavior and Ethology, Wildlife Education, and Animal Management from the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program at Moorpark College.Yes, definitely. Try getting down to the dog's level and offering your hand in a calm and non-confrontational way so the dog can smell it.
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QuestionHow do you meet and greet a dog?Melissa Munoz is an Animal Trainer and the Owner of Pawsitive Perspective Animal Training. She has more than 16 years of experience in reward-based animal training, exotic animal management, and wildlife education. Melissa holds degrees in Animal Behavior and Ethology, Wildlife Education, and Animal Management from the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program at Moorpark College.Avoid a lot of direct eye contact, because for many dogs, eye contact is a form of threatening behavior. Crouch down, offer your hand and talk to them soothingly. Just let the dog approach you on its own terms.
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QuestionHow do you get a shy dog to come to you?Melissa Munoz is an Animal Trainer and the Owner of Pawsitive Perspective Animal Training. She has more than 16 years of experience in reward-based animal training, exotic animal management, and wildlife education. Melissa holds degrees in Animal Behavior and Ethology, Wildlife Education, and Animal Management from the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program at Moorpark College.Try throwing treats towards the dog to lure it near you and show you're not a threat.
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References
- ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/how-to-approach-a-dog
- ↑ Melissa Muñoz. Animal Trainer. Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.
- ↑ Melissa Muñoz. Animal Trainer. Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.
- ↑ Melissa Muñoz. Animal Trainer. Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.
- ↑ Melissa Muñoz. Animal Trainer. Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.
- ↑ https://getyourpet.com/meeting-a-dog-meet-up-dos-donts/
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