11/02/2025
Despite what people may think about reactive dogs! It's never down to a breed or size thing. It's just a dog thing.
I've seen so many with the same issue, running into humans and other dogs or just the them self don't have boundaries or limitations. Sadly, other dogs coming up are always an easier interaction than a person that thinks just because they asked they can still touch.
I've lost count when people don't like being told they can't approach my dog or if they did want to, they have to not stroke it and let the dog just sniff them. The odd few people get it, but most don't or just think they know better.
The main reason I'm always confused is because it's other dog owners I'm mostly having to do deal with, it's not like I'm walking in a town centre expecting people that may not own dogs to know about dogs. I'm talking about where we all walk the dogs, this is a place where I would expect that other dog owners have done their true homework to understand the relationship they have with their companion, there's so much information available on body language.
To those who need the reminder! Putting your hand out towards the dog does not help it smell you better, it's nose works fine. Just because a dog comes up does not always mean it wants to be touched. That's for a second or third date or maybe never. Just be happy it shared its personal space with you. We humans are scary and unpredictable creatures that are not always aware of what we are doing.
To all those who searched for professional help to find you was unequipped to handle either the change in yourself or how to handle others. Nature can be wild as it can be beautiful, and some of us were given the chance to use our negative past to help build positive futures. Thank you for your bravery to let go and not let love cloud the judgment on difficult choices.
If you're sticking with it and learning about yourself with consistency on your own reactivity, boundaries, and limitations you have in place. Remember to be kind to yourself as there will be good days and bad days but never a dull day. Keep at it. There's always a way.
