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General behaviour during dog encounters
1. keep your distance
Always keep enough distance from other dogs - especially if you don't know the other dog. Not every dog is socially acceptable, disease-free or in the mood for contact.
2. observe your own dog
- Read body language: Is he tense, excited, interested or anxious?
- Leave the lead loose so that the dog does not feel constricted.
- Never bring them together on a taut lead - this creates tension!
3. ask questions instead of just going there
Always ask if contact is desired: „Can my dog say hello?“
Respect a „no“ without discussion.
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When should you avoid dog encounters?
If one of the dogs:
- is ill or injured
- is in heat (for bitches)
- reacts very aggressively on the lead
- is in training or is wearing a yellow sign (e.g. ribbon: „Please keep your distance“)
- In confusing or narrow areas (e.g. stairs, house entrances)
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What you should do as a human being
- Stay calm. No hectic movements or loud shouting.
- Do not intervene when dogs greet each other, unless it escalates.
- No tugging on the lead - this can encourage aggression.
- Do not fixate (stare at) dogs - many people perceive this as a threat.
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Recognising body language
Symbol Meaning
- Tail high, stiff, ears forward Dominance, possibly tense
- Tail low, ears back, ducking Uncertainty, possibly fear
- Muzzle licking, yawning, averting eyes, appeasement signals
- Standing coat High arousal or uncertainty
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Encourage positive dog encounters
- Training with encounter situations (e.g. under the guidance of a dog school)
- Reward for calm behaviour on visual contact with other dogs
- Mutual respect among dog owners
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Extra tip: Note the yellow ribbon!
- A yellow ribbon or a yellow bandana signals: „My dog needs distance“
Reasons: Illness, training, anxiety, bad experiences.
