By: Sophia Los
How to properly pet a dog is often debated by people who have dogs, or are interested in them, there are many ways to pet a dog, some only a few dogs like, and others the majority like. In this blog I will show and tell you a few ways to pet a dog, but keep in mind not all dogs like getting petted the ways I will show you.
We will start with how to approach a dog you don’t know, this is necessary because a lot of people who don’t know much about dogs will approach them the wrong way and make the dog not like them and be stressed out. First, don’t run over to the dog or start petting immediately it stresses them out and makes them not like you. Approach slowly and extend your hand towards the dog, keep your hand below their chin, this tells them that you mean no harm. They will then sniff you, once sniffed you can approach and pet them unless they show hostile behavior, growling, fur raised, etc. If they show any of those signs then just back away and don’t go near them. When first petting a dog don’t pet them on the head, most dogs only let people they know well or their family members pet them on the head, if you pet them on the head they might growl, or snap at you. A better place to pet them is on the back you can pet or scratch them on the back. Be careful a exited dog may jump up at you, this isn't a sign of hostile behavior unless they are showing any of the signs, this means they are exited to see you and that they like you.
Now onto some favorite places to be pet, one of them is right behind the ears, but not just any place behind the ears, it has to be a bit low and kind of on their neck when you are doing it right then the dog will lean into your hand. Another place to pet them is right on their lower back, it seems like they always have an itch there and like getting Scratched if you scratch them there they will wag their tail.
Now on to what not to do, Don’t pull on their fur or ears, and they hate getting their tail pulled. If you are scratching them too long on their lower back they might snap at you, I believe that is them being playful, because when you pet them there it makes them happy, but you should still watch out for it.
Thank you for reading till the end and paying attention, because this can really help you if you are scared of dogs. Always remember what a dog might want and don’t force them to do anything, and it's always fun and games till someone gets hurt.
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