Some people see a dog out in public as an open invitation to approach and them, but it is rude and possibly dangerous to pet without permission.
It's possible that your dog is nervous around strangers, which can traumatize them or cause an attack. Maybe they are perfectly content with their inner circle of loved ones and aren't interested in being approached. Other times, you might be training your dog and an approach can mess that up, or you and your dog just don't want to be bothered. The worst case is that your dog isn't well socialized around other dogs, which could cause a fight and cause stress on both the dogs and their owners.
It's easy to prevent people and other dogs from approaching you and your pup, but it's not as easy as you might think. There are some ideas for how to handle a situation like this on the internet.
Nothing gets a message across like a sign. There are several products that are designed to deter strangers from approaching your dog. There are vests or harnesses, leash wraps, even bandannas that say things like "Do not pet" or "I need space."
The human should wear something with a message since that is more visible than a leash or harness. Ignore My Dog has devoted an entire collection of shirts and sweatshirts to that directive.
These leash wraps from Best Friend Supplies Co have five-star reviews on Etsy. Credit: Etsy / BestFriendSuppliesCo
The DO NOT PET sign is a popular solution for many, but it had the opposite effect. The sign increased the attention the dog got from other people.
When I had them on my pup's harness, people wanted to ask about her constantly, but they seem to think she's not mean.
The dog whisperers think they are an exception to the rule and that they are the one stranger who can instantly bond with my scared dog.
Avoid the "dog whisperers" who think they're the exception to the rule. Credit: Getty Images / Tetra Images - Jamie Grill
No is a complete sentence, according to the r/dogs Subreddit. If they say no, that is it.
Sometimes people approach your dog without asking for permission, which is why you should say please don't touch my dog and body block if necessary. You don't need an excuse or justification, and offering one just reinforces the ridiculous idea that petting other people's dogs should be the norm.
Most interactions with rogue petters are friendly and not so strict. It is worth keeping in mind that friendly people can sometimes be unsafe.
The softer approach would be to come with a rehearsed line that gets the message across quickly and efficiently.
"Come up with a quick sentence that will make people stop and think."
If someone approaches just tell them, and you really don't want to touch him, it's a solution to the problem.
A dirty dog might deter unsolicited strangers. Credit: Getty Images / Anda Stavri Photography
If you see someone approaching, put the dog behind you and stick out your hand as a stop sign.
If you can't do that, just walk away. You are familiar with your dog. They don't. People do not respect animals the way they should. No tag or flashing lights will ever change that.
When in doubt, walk away. Credit: Getty Images / Sally Anscombe
U/seemylolface says that you are your dog's advocate.
It is up to you to communicate with your dog. Make sure that the methods you use are built around your comfort and safety.
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