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Originally Posted by Mistymillar  I am, actually I can't explain how I am feeling about this. When I am out I will interact with many dogs ( always have, even though I have not until now had a wee darlin' of my own.) I am not aware of being an intruder, or of anyone being upset that I want to meet and converse with their canine family.
I don't worry about strangers talking to, petting or wanting to play with Alfie.
If I feel uncomfortable with a dog or human then I don't interact.
What is socialising and what is the benefit if it is not sociable for your pup and for you?
I will stretch my hand to any Staffie, sit face to face with a Great Dane, or chuckims a poodle. I want to be social with dogs and almost all dogs want to be social with me.
To behave otherwise to me is alien so I am probably the type of person who is making you feel annoyed.
Like I said I don't know how to feel about this topic, but it has just dawned on me that this may be pissing some people off.
I think I am too old to change. And I think generally most dogs love the attention. I know I love it when I know they are so paying attention to me. Such connections. |
I don't think anyone means you shouldn't socialize or interact with a dog, but it is best to ask before petting a stranger's dog. There are many reasons. For instance, some dogs don't do well with strangers in certain situations. My Teddy is one. When he was a pup, people would run at us screaming and try to pick him up. I think he was terrified he was going to lose his new home and family (we brought him home at 8 months of age). For safety and politeness, it's best to ask first to pet.