Among all domestic animals, few are those 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 long-lasting, healthy bond takes effort and it’s not always easy to know how to interpret a pet’s reaction.
If you own or encounter a dog with a hostile temperament, it can be difficult to interact with him. However, it is possible build a positive relationship with him over time keeping your actions under control and trying to get closer, both physically and indirectly, gradually.
In today’s article we will provide some quick tips for befriending a dog who has difficulty socializing.
Friendship between Man and Dog: unknown dog
First, let’s take a look 10 tips for approaching and befriending an unknown dog maybe someone 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 unattended, carefully consider whether it is appropriate to approach him or whether it is better to call the municipal shelter.
2) If you see that the dog has an aggressive or detached behavior, try to understand the reason for his hostility
3) Always approach slowly and move laterally, as if tracing an arc. Walking frontally can be interpreted by the dog as a gesture of defiance.
4) Look elsewhere and only occasionally looks at the dog. Direct eye contact can be interpreted as an act of dominance.
5) Get into a balanced position with the dog squatting or bending your knees.
However, avoid doing this in front of a visibly agitated and defensive dog, because you would be slow in moving.
6) When you try to pet him, Slowly reach out, palm up, and let her smell it . You should NEVER touch it 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 his side or back .
If the dog becomes aggressive again, move and try again later.
8) Every time you try to make friends with an unsociable dog you need to proceed gradually, slowly and methodically. Building a lasting bond is a process that takes time .
9) Use snacks or treats it can be a good first step in bonding with a dog. However, it must be done with great caution and the first few times it is better to offer food indirectly, letting it fall to the ground in front of him and then looking away .
10) If the dog is very shy, another good option is to pretend he isn’t there and behave normally. This will pique his curiosity. If he comes to smell you, stay still and let him.
Dog Man Friendship: Your dog
Sometimes it can happen that when we receive 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 possible about your dog’s past . A hostile attitude may have been caused by a history of abuse or a lack of adequate socialization.
2) A dog that is aggressive in the presence of food should be left alone while it eats . Try socializing at other times.
3) Some dogs are hostile because they are stressed by loud noises like radio, TV or shouting. Try to interact with them in a calm environment by making your home so.
4) Be patient and react calmly when your dog makes a mistake . A polite but firm “no” is enough.
5) Let the dog come and smell you first . While he does this, remain completely still. Don’t try to pet him or reach out.
6) Positive encouragement works . Using special toys or treats can give you a lot of help in getting closer to your dog.
7) Calm activities, such as a long walk or 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 doesn’t become a stressful activity. AND obviously good practice to contact a certified educator .
9) If there are no signs of improvement, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. Sometimes a hostile dog is hostile due to a seizure disorder or other underlying condition that causes constant pain.
10) Sometimes a change in diet can work wonders in reducing a dog’s anxiety, helping owners 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 we try to create a bond with our pet, we must pay attention to these behaviors to avoid unpleasant consequences.
1) If your dog begins to cower, behaves ambiguously, and suddenly tenses up, back away immediately. Also be careful if he lowers his nose and starts circling you.
2) When a dog is pushed too far, he will start to growl and show his teeth. This is a warning you should heed.
3) Eye contact can be a challenge you don’t want to accept. If your dog tries to make and maintain eye contact with you, look away, but don’t 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 he appears to be wagging his tail, because if this movement is limited and stiff, it is 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 at your home.
Getting off to a good start with your pet is the basis of a friendship between man and dog that will last forever.
In the dog section of our online shop 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.
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