A lesson in taking your dog to dinner
Pooch patio etiquette
When we think of well-behaved dogs, we often picture those that seamlessly blend into their surroundings. This ability is especially evident in service dogs, who epitomize public pooch etiquette. While it might be frustrating that we can’t pet these working dogs, their behavior offers valuable lessons for all pet owners: good dog etiquette in public is about being discreet and respectful. Ashley Douglas, owner and head trainer of Paws On Learning on Hilton Head, shares her expert advice on dining out with our four-legged friends.
Less is more
Imagine your dog as a child at a restaurant. “Which children make for a more pleasant dining experience: the ones screaming for attention or those who are calm and polite?” says Douglas. The same applies to dogs. The goal is for your dog to be so composed that it barely makes a ripple in the environment. Achieving this requires practice and strategic socialization.
Object socialization
Proper etiquette begins with a well-rounded socialization strategy. “When it comes to socialization for dogs, 10% should be other dogs, 20% should be people, and 70% should be objects in the dog’s environment,” says Douglas. Practice object socialization daily by introducing your dog to different surfaces, sounds and situations, such as moving chairs and tables, people walking by and the buzz of conversation.
Introductions to new environments
When visiting a new public venue, start by walking your dog around to explore the space. Maintain handler focus, and find a spot that minimizes exposure to high-traffic areas. If someone wishes to interact with your dog, assess the situation. “The best people to greet your dogs are those with a calm demeanor who approach slowly and quietly,” explains Douglas. If someone doesn’t have the right approach, simply say, ‘Thank you for asking, but we are training at the moment.’
Dog meets dog
Public venues are not ideal for dogs to meet. “Dogs should never greet one another on a leash,” says Douglas. Save dog-to-dog interactions for controlled environments where both dogs can be off-leash, such as a secure backyard or well-staffed doggy daycare.
The key to public dog etiquette lies in thoughtful socialization, strategic acclimation and respectful interaction management. As Douglas says, “The most well-behaved dogs in public are the ones you don’t even notice are there.” By making your dog’s presence subtle and unobtrusive, you enhance its public experience and set a standard for others. Connect with Paws On Learning to get help with training your best friend.
