Download - How to approach a dog
Dogs are truly man\'s best friends because apart from being loyal and affectionate, these animals constantly show their gentle nature to the human family. Some
breeds though can be intimidating as they are naturally ferocious and ownership is restricted in some areas. The aggressiveness that is specifically bred into these dogs is
further developed through training as these ferocious dogs will be utilized as guard and protection dogs.
After domestication, dogs have become well loved and loyal companions of man for thousands of years. A well
mannered dog can easily bare its teeth and show an aggressive temperament as in spite of the long years of
domestication the ferocious nature remained. More than 4 million people in United States get bitten by dogs every year. Many of the victims were attacked by their own
dogs. It is therefore necessary to learn how approach a dog.
Dog owners, especially the children must know how to approach a dog. Dogs are territorial animals and food
motivated as well. A dog will guard its territory, food and toys. Once a threat to its territory is perceived, even a
friendly and gentle dog would bare its teeth, growl and get ready to attack. People and especially children must not
tease the dog by trying to get a toy or take away the food the dog is eating. Even if your intention is to add more
food to the bowl, the dog can still bite.
Children are always attracted to dogs. Kids would always want to hug and cuddle a sleeping pet. A pat would startle
a sleeping pet causing it to instinctively bite. It is very necessary to warn the kids not to startle a sleeping dog. To
be safe it is necessary to approach the dog slowly and to make sure that the pet is aware that you are there.
Because of the close bond, a dog will tolerate family members to access its territory but aggression will
certainly be shown to unfamiliar people. Dog lovers find it hard to resist touching an attractive and gentle looking
dog. A gentle looking dog though may turn aggressive to the touch of an unfamiliar person . Ask the owner if it is
alright to touch the dog. Slowly approach the dog but don\'t stare directly as it can be misconstrued by the dog as a challenge. Approach slowly and extend a hand with
the palm down or the fingers curled under to be sniffed by the dog. A friendly dog will sniff the offered hand.