02/09/2020
Good information
Let's talk about consent. Specifically - just because we can touch a dog however we want doesn't mean we should.
Dogs are quite tolerant of us most of the time. We hug them and kiss them and pat them on top of the head and lean over them and put our faces in theirs and we touch them while they eat just to prove we "can".
We pet strange dogs on the street and at the pet store, the more responsible folks asking permission from the human holding the leash. But we rarely think to ask the dog.
We photograph children riding our dogs or pulling their ears and hold up the photos of evidence that we have an amazing, tolerant dog.
Until we don't.
Teach your dog that their subtle communication - like turning their head, moving away, or licking their lips - is heard and respected. Don't force them to escalate their communication to growling or snapping.
Teach your dog that they can move away when they are uncomfortable.
Allow your dog space to eat and sleep in peace.
Try this - next time you would like to pet a dog - invite them over to you. If they approach, wonderful! If they do not, that's okay too. Respect the no. (Even if you want your dog to "get used to it". Call a professional for help. Repeatedly having an unpleasant experience does not turn it into a positive experience over time.)
But don't stop there. You might enjoy a hug from a friend, but might become uncomfortable if they don't let you go after a few moments. So after 3 seconds, stop touching the dog. See what they do. Do they move away? Do they try to re-engage you? Respond appropriately.
We have the ability to control almost every aspect of our dog's existence. When we take into consideration their needs as well as our own desires, everyone ultimately wins.
