I typically try to keep alert to all surroundings when I have a dog with me. So I stay prepared to move quickly and to control the dog I'm working with. But you can't see 360* around you.
There are several problems with this scenario:
- It's extremely disrespectful and potentially dangerous.
- That handler had no idea if my dog was friendly, fearful, or otherwise in need of space from being charged upon.
- Even if his dog was friendly - he had no idea how those 2 dogs would react together.
- Had either dog been somewhat aggressive or reactive, my face was right at dog level.
- There is a first time for every incident and startling another dog (or his handle) can create an incident that will take many moons to recover from.
- What if it had been a child holding their dog who was charged upon?
- Flexi-leads hurt like #%!! when they extend and retract against your skin. They can actually create a skin burn.
- If he had made me break my camera -- I can't say out loud what I would have done.
Take an extra 2 minutes and ask a handler before you approach their dog (with or without another dog) and then control that dog to dog greeting with calmness and without excitability.
And PLEASE LOSE flexi-leads. Get yourself a good quality leather leash.
Dana Brigman
The K9 Coach
Dog Training - Matthews, NC
980-339-8064
www.thek9-coach.com
info@thek9-coach.com
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