A problem I often have with service dogs and pets is the whistler. The person who calls your dog and expects them to come to a complete stranger. My dogs have been suspicious of strangers, but many are distracted by it and pet dogs may do as they're told by anyone. I've found a quick solution. Many reactions have to be very short before someone walks away, and while it can seem rude, it gets the point across and can be worded more politely. I call it the 'that's not your dog.' It can be that, or asking someone why they'd call a strange dog who is obviously not lost or in danger.
Nibbler's vest is in the wash, and as I was writing this, someone came up to pet him. I asked him to please not, and he left. However, someone nearby commented that I should have a vest. I explained it isn't legally required, and people should learn as young children that they aren't entitled to pet strange dogs. He said that it should be required because he's sick of getting yelled at for it. I told him that it' not considered polite or even smart to pet any strange dog without asking, as you could get bit and the dog could be put down. I'm considering asking adults why their mothers never taught them to stay away from strange dogs without permission. All humans and animals involved are put in danger when this happens. The worst, though, is when they 'introduce' our dogs without asking. My last dog, who was a pet, just didn't do well with other females, and was 90 pounds of muscle and teeth. She taught people a lesson in a show of force (not harming, just displaying) but my current dog can't defend himself when working, and would lose to an aggressive large dog.
What I'm curious about are other tactics people use to quickly correct people who mess with their dogs and what your biggest issues are.
Nibbler's vest is in the wash, and as I was writing this, someone came up to pet him. I asked him to please not, and he left. However, someone nearby commented that I should have a vest. I explained it isn't legally required, and people should learn as young children that they aren't entitled to pet strange dogs. He said that it should be required because he's sick of getting yelled at for it. I told him that it' not considered polite or even smart to pet any strange dog without asking, as you could get bit and the dog could be put down. I'm considering asking adults why their mothers never taught them to stay away from strange dogs without permission. All humans and animals involved are put in danger when this happens. The worst, though, is when they 'introduce' our dogs without asking. My last dog, who was a pet, just didn't do well with other females, and was 90 pounds of muscle and teeth. She taught people a lesson in a show of force (not harming, just displaying) but my current dog can't defend himself when working, and would lose to an aggressive large dog.
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| "Mama, I'm bored." |
What I'm curious about are other tactics people use to quickly correct people who mess with their dogs and what your biggest issues are.
I have gotten used to holding my tft service dog in my arms. When people reach for her or make noises at her, I simply move her to the other side of me. It's generally non-aggressive and rather final.
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