🐾 How Not to Approach a Dog 🐾

We’ve all seen it happen — someone rushes up to pet a dog without asking, bends over too quickly, or reaches straight for their head. While the intention might be kind, the approach can easily make a dog feel nervous, threatened, or even defensive.

Alan Carr
October 8, 2025

To help keep both people and pups safe, here are three common mistakes to avoid when approaching a dog:

🚫 Don’t Rush In

Fast movements and loud excitement can overwhelm a dog. Instead, approach slowly and calmly to show that you’re not a threat.

🚫 Don’t Reach Over Their Head

A hand coming from above can feel intimidating. Always offer your hand calmly from the side so the dog can see and sniff you first.

🚫 Don’t Skip Permission

Always ask the owner before petting a dog. Some dogs are shy, anxious, or in training — and respecting their space helps build trust and safety.

✨ The Right Way

Stand calmly, avoid direct staring, and let the dog come to you. Allowing them to approach at their own pace creates a positive and comfortable interaction for both of you.

Why This Matters?

At Alan’s K9 Academy in Cartersville, GA, we believe that understanding your dog’s behavior is just as important as teaching obedience. Our professional dog training programs focus on:

✅ Building trust between dogs and owners
✅ Strengthening communication and confidence
✅ Preventing anxiety and unwanted behaviors

When you learn how to read your dog’s signals and respect their boundaries, you create a bond built on trust — not tension.

🔥 Here’s the deal:
Safety, respect, and understanding are the foundation of every great relationship — especially with your dog. At Alan’s K9 Academy, we’ll help you build that foundation through expert, balanced training that transforms your dog’s behavior and your confidence as an owner.

📞 Call us today at +1 (470) 648-6512 to start your dog’s training journey.
👉 Visit www.alansk9academy.com to learn more or book your training session now.

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Areas We Serve

serving north atlanta, Cobb County & Cherokee County

440 Lucas Rd SW, Cartersville, GA 30120