How do you ask someone to socialize with your dog?

[mjfish]

I would like to allow the Rottn monster to socialize with people more because he loves it (he's a big friendly wiggle butt ), but I just don't know how to go about asking people if they want to pet him. Some people run the other way when they see him but others will kind of look at him and look at you, and you get the impression that they want to pet him but are afraid to ask. Do you make an offer?

At training class the other night, we were working on recalls, and everyone had to clear the ring as only 3 dogs were working at a time. So, the area outside of the ring is small and there are the other class people plus people just their watching. So, while I was waiting outside the ring, there was a couple sitting on chairs right next to me with a little Chihuahua on their lap. I try to keep a distance from people in case they are afraid, but then I think I may be perpetuating the notion that these dogs should be feared, you know what I mean? Anyway, I could tell the guy wanted to pet him, and he eventually stuck out his hand to let him smell him then pet him, which was nice. I wanted to offer to have him pet him before he stuck his hand out, but just didn't know what I should say. "Wanna pet my dog mister?"

How do you handle a socialization opportunity like this (or do you not even ask)?

[Tywaknya'sBABY]

I used a colorful bandana. Sounds simple but it took the edge off and people were more willing to start up a conversation on our walks.

[woofus]

First off, take him whenerver you can that allows pets. Pet stores, outdoor cafes, parks, etc. Lots of people there.

Another thing you might try is "dressing" him up. Put a bandana around his neck, in the local school colors or your favorite sports team. Something that will get people to notice how adorable he is. :)

A "friend" on the net has a pitbull that everyone is afraid of when they go out and walk. (Because they're so vicious, don't ya know?) ;) So he got him a Superman suit. The CUTEST thing you'll ever see.

Same (vicious) dog goes out in the suit and people run to pet him, 'cause he's so durned cute.

Or you could just take the proactive approach and if you see someone eyeing the dog, looking like they want to pet him, just ask "Would you like to pet him?"

[moondog]

If someone is looking at Chili with longing, but a bit of apprehension - I'll say "She's VERY friendly! Would you like to say hello to her?"

If they are interested in her and not apprehensive, I'll say "Her name is Chili - she'd love to say Hi to you!"

For those who cross the street, I see no reason to attempt any interaction at all. If they are people I see on a regular basis in the neighborhood, it'll only be a matter of time before they figure out on their own that she's a love, LOL.

[JemarsSerena]

We take Serena to parades and encourage anyone who asks or looks to go ahead and pet her. We also tell them why: "It would be great for her training and help her get used to all kinds of people!"

[toby01]

I've found the best place to socialize my dog is at the children's play area in the park. I drive out of my way to one that allows dogs. You'll find all ages of children, men, women, and grandparents. It's the perfect socialization opportunity!

I carry around treats and I approach everyone. As I reach in my pocket and pull out the treat I say, "Hi, I'm socializing my dog and I'd appreciate it if you'd give my dog this treat. Thanks." I don't really establish a friendship first. I just nicely impose. The kids make it very easy for me. They naturally are attracted to dogs and want to pet them. I then pass out treats to the kids and hand one to the adult that accompanies the kids.

I use treats because my dog prefers that over being pet on the head, he's not a big fan. I guess you could offer whatever your dog likes best, so that he associates new people with his favorite thing. If not a treat, then a tennis ball, tug rope, you get the idea.

[koody]

try to go to your local dog park (best if unleash allow). you will basically get to met dog owners and their dogs. therefore, you get opportunaty for people to meet your dog.

[trish603a]

i would NOT go to the dog park to socialize your dog. I would take them everywhere with me though. rides in the car, drive thru windows, pet stores, on walks around the neighborhood. this way the dog is exposed to all kinds of sounds and people. i also take zoey to my vets office regularly so she has a positive connotation with the vet's office. everyone loves her there and she gives plenty of kisses to the staff. If i see someone that is looking at zoey but is hesitant to walk up to her, i say, "i am socializing my dog to everyone, would you like to pet her?" then i make zoey sit, and allow the person to pet her under her chin, which she LOVES.

[hesmyboy]

Trish may I ask why you so no to local parks.......I mean my vet told me to stand outside a department store and allow ppl to socialize with my dog

Thanks fo the tip on the treats....my dog is a male and we all know the best way to a mans heart is through his belly.....

I love this sight so many good tips....

R

[moondog]

Trish is talking about off leash DOG parks, not people parks. The problem with dog parks is the total lack of knowledge or control over loose dogs, not all of whom are puppy friendly and their potentially unaware owners - and for a puppy that is not fully vaccinated there is a high risk of disease. While I'm on this, it's also a good idea to always bring your own water and dish for your dog and not let them share bowls with other (unknown and possibly unhealthy) dogs.

Going to a department store parking lot, strip mall, hardware store, children's playground, soccer field, etc. - and of course, training classes - are all excellent places to socialize your puppy!

[Gunsey'sMom]

Alot of times BF will bring Gunner with him to pick me up at work. Everyone there adores him! Just make sure it is okay. He gets to interact with new people, and I also know there is no one objectionable as well.

We also enjoyed taking him to the kids soccar practices. There were no dogs allowed at the game fields on game day though-so we respected that (although others did not)

I also can tell when people want to interact but dont know if is okay. I will tell them it is okay and give them tips on how to properly approach as well. (not straight on and giving a back or chest sratch instead of patting on the head)

I also take into account Gunner's demeanor as well. If he is too wound up-I dont want him jumping up on people either, so if he is not behaving properly it is better for me to pass on a greeting. Not only have I kept control of my dog at that point (he has also not been rewarded for bad behavior with the contact he craves), but I have also been a good ambassador for the breed.

[mjfish]

Good input everyone -- thanks! I will have to be a little less reserved about asking people, that's really the only way to promote the breed.

I used to go to the dog park, but stopped. When he was a puppy, everyone loved him. The minute he grew into his adult body, that was it, he was a "vicious" dog, even though he was still a puppy (and still is I think! ) One of the last times we went, my dog was chasing another man's dog (to play of course), the guy got so upset and started screaming that my dog was going to kill his dog...literally screaming...and he threw the cup of water he was carrying at my dog...didn't even come close, but totally psycho. I got a hold of my dog and the guy was yelling why would I bring a vicious killer to the dog park, blah, blah, blah, so I yelled back that he was fine and that he was just prejudiced against the breed. Whatever, good riddance to the dog park and stupid owners like that.

Anyhow...I do take him to the dog stores when I can and such, and the workers are always nice. When we're on walks, people mostly avoid us, so that's fine...I won't chase after them... He loves going to the vet...I really should take him there to visit more...the people there are great with him. I guess I have to be a little more bold with people (to a certain extent of course) and just ask!