HOW CAN I HELP MY DOG STAY CALM AROUND OTHER DOGS?
Find out how you can help your pup feel more comfortable, stay focused, and remain calm when other dogs are nearby.
Your dog’s reaction can come from excitement, fear, frustration, or simply not knowing what to do when another dog is nearby. The goal is not necessarily for your dog to interact with every dog they see, but to help them feel comfortable and remain calm when another dog is around.
START WITH ENOUGH DISTANCE
If your dog becomes overwhelmed around other dogs, start by giving them plenty of space. You may need to cross the street, step off the path, or move farther away until your dog can remain calm. The goal is to find a distance where your dog notices the other dog without immediately reacting.
DON'T FORCE INTERACTIONS
Your dog does not have to greet every dog they see. Allowing dogs to approach each other when one or both dogs are uncomfortable can create unnecessary stress and excitement. Instead, let your dog pass by calmly and focus on teaching them that they can see another dog without needing to interact.
DON'T ALWAYS AVOID OTHER DOGS
Creating distance can be an important tool, but you don’t want your dog to learn that seeing another dog always means they need to leave. If you automatically cross the street or turn around every single time another dog appears, your dog may begin to expect that behavior and become confused when you cannot create that distance. Use space when your dog needs it, but also practice calmly walking past other dogs when it is safe and appropriate.
