The dog is man's best friend.
Among all domestic animals, there are few that bond as closely to their owners as dogs, whose loyalty is historically well known (just think of the famous Hachiko ).
However, human-dog friendship requires dedication and understanding.
Humans and dogs are still two different species and do not speak the same language. Creating a lasting and healthy bond requires commitment and it is not always easy to know how to interpret a pet's reaction.
If you own or meet a dog with an unfriendly temperament, it can be difficult to interact with him. However, it is possible to build a positive relationship with him over time , by keeping your actions under control and trying to get closer, both physically and indirectly, gradually.
In today's article, we'll provide some quick tips for making friends with a dog who has difficulty socializing.
Friendship Man Dog: unknown dog
First, let's look at 10 tips for approaching and making friends with an unknown dog , perhaps one you meet by chance on the street.
1) Always look for the owner first and ask permission to approach. If the dog is loose and unsupervised, judge carefully whether it is a good idea to approach or whether it is better to call the municipal kennel.
2) If you see that the dog has an aggressive or aloof behavior, try to understand the reason for his hostility
3) Always approach slowly and move sideways, as if tracing an arc. Walking frontally can be interpreted by the dog as a challenging gesture.
4) Look away and only occasionally look at the dog. Direct eye contact can be interpreted as an act of dominance.
5) Get into an even position with the dog , by crouching or bending your knees.
However, avoid doing this in front of a visibly agitated and defensive dog, because you would be slow in your movements.
6) When you try to pet him, slowly reach out with your hand, palm up, and let him smell it . You should NEVER touch him right away. Repeat the process several times until you see the dog calm down.
7) Avoid touching the dog on the muzzle, but pet him on the side or back .
If the dog becomes aggressive again, move and try again later.
8) Whenever you try to befriend an unsociable dog, you must proceed gradually, slowly and methodically. Building a lasting bond is a process that takes its time .
9) Using snacks or treats can be a good first step in creating a bond with a dog. However, it must be done with great caution and the first few times it is better to offer the food indirectly, by dropping it on the ground in front of him and then looking away .
10) If the dog is very shy, another good option is to pretend that you are not there and act normally. This will appeal to his curiosity. If he comes to sniff you, stay still and let him do it.
Friendship Man Dog: Your Dog
Sometimes it can happen that when we get a new dog to bring home, it remains very suspicious and hostile. Having an impulsive dog under your roof can be really unpleasant, but here are 10 tips to try to create a lasting bond with him.
1) Gather as much information as you can about your dog’s past . A hostile attitude may have been caused by a history of abuse or a lack of proper socialization.
2) A dog that is aggressive in the presence of food should be left alone while eating . Try to socialize at other times.
3) Some dogs are unfriendly because they are stressed by loud noises such as radio, TV or screaming. Try to interact with them in a quiet environment by making your home one.
4) Be patient and react calmly when the dog makes a mistake . A gentle but firm “no” is enough.
5) Let the dog come first to sniff you . While he does this, remain completely still. Do not try to pet him or reach out with your hands.
6) Positive encouragement works . Using special toys or treats can give you a considerable help in getting closer to your dog.
7) Quiet activities, such as a long walk or a hike, can relieve tension in a dog . Playing with him can also be a solution, but be careful because it could stimulate aggression.
8) If you encounter many difficulties , you can participate together in a socialization course , as long as it does not become a stressful activity. It is obviously good practice to contact a certified educator .
9) If there are no signs of improvement, it is time to consult a veterinarian. Sometimes an unfriendly dog is unfriendly because of a seizure disorder or other underlying conditions that cause constant pain.
10) Sometimes a change in diet can do wonders in reducing a dog's anxiety, helping owners to have a positive interaction with them.
Human-Dog Friendship: The Signs
We conclude the article by quickly summarizing the main warning signs of an aggressive dog . When trying to create a bond with our pet, we must pay attention to these behaviors to avoid unpleasant consequences.
1) If the dog starts to cower, behaves ambiguously and suddenly stiffens, back away immediately. Also be careful if he lowers his nose and starts to circle you.
2) When a dog is pushed too far, he will start growling and showing his teeth. This is a warning you should listen to.
3) Eye contact can be a challenge that you don't want to accept. If the dog tries to make and maintain eye contact with you, then look away, but don't actually lose sight of him out of the corner of your eye.
4) If the tail is stiff, the dog is tense. It doesn't matter if it looks like it's wagging, because if this movement is limited and stiff, it's probably due to agitation rather than happiness.
We hope these tips will help you interact in the best way with a dog, whether you meet one on the street or one that has just arrived in your home.
Getting off to a good start with your pet is the foundation of a friendship between man and dog that will last forever.
In the dog section of our online store you can find a wide range of dedicated accessories.
Developed by our specialists, these Croci brand products are designed to be useful both at the beginning for a “first contact” and later to cement the relationship.
