Some dogs rush to greet every person they meet. Others hang back, turn away or hide behind their owner. This is not bad manners: like people, dogs have their own social preferences.
Personality matters
A dog’s temperament — how confident, curious, shy or energetic it is — has a big influence on how keen it is to meet strangers. Some dogs are naturally sociable; others are more selective, and that is perfectly normal.
Reading the “no thanks” signals
Dogs usually give clear signs when they are uncomfortable, long before anything escalates:
- turning the head or looking away;
- backing off or hiding behind their owner;
- licking their lips repeatedly;
- yawning;
- stiffening or freezing;
- a low or tucked tail;
- ears flattened against the head.
These are the dog’s way of asking for space. If the signals are respected, the dog relaxes. If they are ignored — for example, if a stranger insists on stroking the dog — it may growl, bark or even snap.
Early socialisation
The first months of a puppy’s life are a critical period for learning about the world. Positive experiences with different people, other animals and new environments help to produce a confident, friendly adult dog. Good socialisation means:
- introducing the puppy gradually to a variety of sights, sounds and smells;
- linking new experiences with treats, play or praise;
- never forcing contact when the puppy seems afraid.
A puppy that has frightening experiences, or too few, may grow up wary of unfamiliar people.
What owners can do
- Let the dog choose whether to approach, rather than pulling it towards strangers.
- Reward calm behaviour with treats or praise.
- Give it a way out if it feels overwhelmed.
- Stay calm: dogs pick up on our emotions.
- Speak up for your dog: it’s fine to ask people not to touch it.
For people meeting dogs
If you want to greet a dog, ask the owner first, let the dog come to you and avoid leaning over it or reaching over its head. And teach children never to approach an unfamiliar dog without asking.
A dog that chooses who to greet is not a problem dog. Respecting its boundaries builds trust — and makes walks more relaxed for everyone.
