This post looks at the issue of On Lead Greetings. Specifically 2 dogs not known to each other, greeting each other, both on leads.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a summary. On Lead Greetings are not a great idea. It’s understandable that you may think – ‘They’re both on leads so what’s the harm?’  Well, we’re going to tell you.

 

Intention:

2 dogs on leads means 4 personalities. What are the chances that all 4 minds are in synch, all wanting the same thing?  Could one dog be in a bad mood? Could an owner be distracted by a phone?  You don’t know why the other dog is on lead. They don’t know why your dog is on lead.  We often blindly allow our dogs into a close, tight, situation without understanding what the other three actors are thinking.

 

Lead Tangle:

Dogs will generally move around each other, this is natural and naturally means that leads will tangle. If either dog wants to get out of there quickly, they can’t and stress hits the ceiling.

 

Fight or Flight:

If things get stress and the adrenaline starts to flow, dogs move into fight or flight mode, They are on leads, they cant flee, so fight it is then.

 

But I really want my dog to meet other dogs……

Well OK, here’s the ‘rules’

• The 3 second rule

1: Move in

2: Sniff

3: Move out

If you never see that dog again, it was a simple greeting. If it starts to become a regular meeting then they will get to know each other and you can relax.

So there you go. Your dog, your choice, but ask almost any trainer and they will agree with this.

If you need any help with your dog, shout out. We’re here for you. https://www.99-problems.co.uk/contact-us/