15/09/2025
A Practical Observation Guide for Dog Owners in Public Spaces
When working with your own dog in public, whether on a walk, at a park, or in training sessions, you’re not only managing your dog’s behaviour but also navigating interactions with other people’s dogs. Unfortunately, not all dogs you encounter will be well-socialised or under proper control. Being able to read body language, recognise balanced play, and intervene early can make all the difference in keeping both dogs safe.
1. The Basics of Canine Communication.
Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and knowing what to look for helps you assess whether an interaction is friendly, overstimulated, or unsafe. Key signs to observe include:
-Loose bodies & curved approaches → Friendly, low-stress greeting.
-Stiff postures & direct eye contact → Potential tension, possible challenge.
-Play bows (front end down, back end up) → An invitation to play.
-Excessive staring, freezing, or leaning forward → Red flags for escalation.
2. What Balanced Play Looks Like.
-Balanced play is cooperative and respectful. Both dogs should appear relaxed and willing to continue. Hallmarks include:
-Role reversal: One dog chases, then they switch. One pins, then gets pinned. Fair give-and-take.
-Self-handicapping: A larger or stronger dog intentionally “toning down” intensity for a smaller or younger partner.
-Pauses: Breaks in activity where both dogs shake off, sniff, or disengage before resuming play.
-Happy signals: Loose, wagging tails (not stiff), relaxed mouths, and bouncy movements.
When you see these, the interaction is likely safe and healthy.
3. When Play Becomes Problematic.
Not all dogs understand how to play politely, and some interactions can spiral quickly. Be alert for:
-One-sided play: One dog always chases, tackles, or pins, while the other tries to escape.
-Bullying behaviour: Overly rough play, ignoring signals to stop, or ganging up in groups.
-Stress signals ignored: The dog being chased yawns, licks lips, or turns away but the other persists.
-Escalating arousal: Play that gets faster, louder, and more physical without pauses.
If you notice these patterns, it’s safer to calmly call your dog away and disengage before things escalate.
4. Managing Encounters With Unsocialised Dogs
Even when your own dog is well-managed, other owners may allow unsocialised or uncontrolled dogs to approach. Here’s how to handle it:
-Stay calm and neutral. Dogs can mirror you, don’t panic or tense up.
-Use your body as a barrier. Step calmly between your dog and the oncoming dog.
-Avoid shouting or flailing. This can trigger arousal or aggression. Instead, use a firm voice to direct the other dog away.
-Leash awareness. If both dogs are leashed, keep leads loose to avoid increasing tension through restraint.
-Exit strategically. Sometimes the best option is to calmly move away rather than risk a negative interaction.
5. Supporting Your Dog’s Training in Public.
-Pick your spots. Start in quieter areas before working up to busy, dog-heavy environments.
-Be proactive. If you see an uncontrolled dog approaching, redirect early instead of waiting until they’re nose-to-nose.
-Advocate for your dog. It’s okay to say, “My dog is in training, please give us space.”
-Reinforce calm. Reward your dog for looking to you instead of fixating on other dogs.
Final Thoughts:
Balanced play and safe interactions are wonderful opportunities for social growth. But when you’re in public spaces, your responsibility is to your dog first. Learn to read the body language of both dogs, step in early if play tips out of balance, and don’t hesitate to politely disengage from situations that don’t feel safe. Over time, this proactive approach not only protects your dog but also builds their confidence in you as their trusted handler.
