Dog Etiquette

Albert waiting for George to pass him on the garden path..he ambushes the Scottie
On the path everyday, giving him a quick smack up the arse as he passes

Nervous old Meg with George

 Yesterday I somewhat pompously educated two kids on the right way to greet a dog on a lead. I think I scared them ( and their Sunday dad who was walking with them) when I stopped their excited " run up to say hi", but it's something I am quite strict upon when out in public.
My rules are:-

• Always ask the owner if you can approach
• Stop short of the dog and offer your hand
• Wait until the dog approaches you before you pat

It's not rocket science.

My dogs are all wary of strangers. William is the friendliest, but will only approach a new person

after he is able to sniff an extended hand. After this cautious first introduction, he is likely to climb
into anyone's lap if allowed.

Meg is the most nervous dog, and will hang back from any introduction unless the visitor is in the 

house, and George will just bark a friendly but incredibly loud " arrrooooooo" at anyone he does not 

know., which sends most nervous individuals scurrying for the hills.

William. Mr nice guy

 Out in public, it is Winifred's reaction to strangers that amuses me the most., for she will actively
ignore anyone and everyone who tries to make a fuss of her. Yesterday the kids on the country path tried every trick in the book to get her attention and all she did was to dead eye the pair of them and turn her back . Like Meg, she will only greet visitors who are invited into the cottage.

Winnie showing her " dead eye"

The children who approached the dogs yesterday, may now think just a little before they gallop up to another dog in public again. It's just a mark of respect.......after all, I wouldn't run up to a perfect stranger and rub his ears, pucker up to his nose and tickle his chin without at least saying  a polite " hello" first
Well.....not unless he's Russell Crowe ..............