March 9th, 2024.
When we meet someone for the first time, we strive to make a great first impression through manners and mannerisms. We respect their space, pay attention to body language, speak thoughtfully, and go out of our way to create a comfortable environment.
However, when meeting a dog, our manners often take a backseat. We eagerly invade their personal space, issue commands like “sit”, “down”, or “stay” without regard for their comfort, and resort to gestures like pointing and wagging our fingers to assert dominance. Pretty stark differences, right?
Monkey See, Monkey…Dog?
Similar to young children, dogs learn by example…monkey see, monkey do. They mimic the behavior that they see. They lack judgment and may adopt certain behaviors, to survive or out of curiosity. Unlike humans however, dogs live entirely in the present. This means any bad behavior can be redirected and reshaped through the consistency of good examples. What this does not mean is that if you show your dog something once their behavior will be changed permanently. However, it gives you the opportunity to create new learning opportunities for your dog so their experiences with “good” behavior becomes a new habit of “good” behavior.
Paw-sitive Personal Space.
Respecting a dog’s space is crucial. Just as we appreciate having the choice to engage in physical contact, dogs should also have the autonomy to decide when they want affection or to be touched. Ignoring their cues for boundaries or to back off can lead to pushy/forceful or demanding behavior, such as pawing and jumping.
Woof, Words, and More.
Contrary to common belief, dogs are capable of understanding more than just a few basic commands. When we issue a “command”, we are exercising dominance, and doing so upon a first meeting, sets a negative tone for the relationship and can even foster negative behaviors in an attempt to reclaim authority. It also limits the boundless learning abilities of dogs, as they can actually grasp at least 1,000 specific words and sentences in a short amount of time. So, when you meet a dog, avoid reducing them to a few commands associated with typical dog behavior. Instead, communicate freely and openly, allowing them to further develop their minds and hearts.
Keep the Tail Wagging!
Using intimidation tactics, such as wagging a finger in a dog’s face, is the fastest way to escalate a situation. Dogs, like humans, thrive in environments without conflict and intimidation. By treating them with respect and understanding, we can cultivate harmonious relationships with our dogs, built on mutual love and respect, ensuring those tails keep wagging long into the future.So, the next time you meet a dog, remember to be mindful of their boundaries, be aware of their body language, speak thoughtfully, and give them grace. Your actions could make a significant difference in their perception of humans and human interactions and contribute to a positive interaction that stays with both parties involved.
Xoxo
Eran & Daniella
