Responsible Pet Ownership Program for Schools, Dealing with Dogs, Approaching a Dog

How Do I Approach A Dog Properly?

Do not go near a dog unless it is with its owner and on a leash
If the dog is not on a leash or is tied up it is not safe to go near them.

Illustration: boy approaching dog tied to bench

Never run towards the dog and owner
The dog may find this scary or think that you are trying to hurt its owner. Walk calmly towards the dog and owner and don't yell or scream.

Ask the owner
Always ask the owner first if you can pat the dog. The owner is the best person to know how the dog is feeling. Most times they will say "Yes" but sometimes it may be not feeling well or tired so the owner may say "Not today".

Illustration: boy asking permission of dog owner

Approach the dog from the front, at a slight angle, so that it can see you
If you walk straight at the dog it may feel threatened. If you come from behind you may frighten it.

Illustration: child approaching dog from angle

Let the dog smell the back of your hand with your fingers curled under
This is not a fist. Move your hand slowly.

Illustration: dog sniffing a hand

If the dog sniffs your hand stroke the dog gently

On the side of the chest
On the shoulder
Under the chin

Illustration: dog wanting a pat

Do Not:

Do not pat the dog on the head
Do not put your arms around the dog's neck
Do not put your face next to the dog's face

Illustration: patting dog on head Illustration: squeezing dog around neck Illustration: staring at a dog

If the dog does not sniff your hand, or backs away, do not pat it
The dog is telling you it doesn't want to be patted.

Illustration: dog not wanting a pat

Department of Primary Industries , Victoria, Australia

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