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I don't let random folks pet my dog. I know what you're thinking. Wow, that's weird. Whenever I spot a dog in public, I get super excited and happy. Of course, we all want to pet all the dogs. But when I decided that I wanted to create a lifestyle where I could bring my 100 lb fur baby everywhere with me, I had to set some boundaries. I realized that if we want to live a dog-friendly life, we can't let our dogs be entertainment for everyone they come across. That's why I bought a harness and leash that straight up says, "Do Not Pet" right from the start of Max's training.
Training During the Pandemic
I knew when I started training our newly adopted dog that I wanted him to learn to stay calm in public places. Little dogs have such an easy time. My little purse dog doesn't need a lot of correcting because she doesn't seek out the pets and attention of others, and she stays in my lap or purse easily. She is 9 lbs and can be kept under control. Max, however, is a giant Old English Sheepdog, with a streak of stubbornness. Setting the expectations for him at an early age was very important.
I started Max's training at the brink of the pandemic. Our timing was ideal. We could go places without many people around. Crowds were nonexistent and the few people you did come across stayed 6 feet away.
Exposure
A hugely important aspect for Max to learn to be out and about with me 24/7 was to let him get exposure to all there is to see, smell, and hear in the world. Dogs are most comfortable in the places they have been to several times. Each new place they are exposed to is a new chance to become familiar and learn to remain calm despite the distractions. The restaurant patio, the department store, the busy town square, the vet, the car wash, are all brand new experiences to them. Their minds are naturally going to be overly exerted and their reaction is most likely going to be along the lines of stress - whether that be excitement or anxiety. Getting them constant exposure to these places as soon as possible allows them to become used to being out and about. We have to be advocates for our dogs in helping them become respectful canine citizens.
Not Here For Your Entertainment
People get so excited about seeing dogs, especially a big fluffy, cuddly one. And I get it! I do too. But in order for Max to be comfortable, calm, and completely used to the idea of walking around shops and busy public spaces with me and his dad, I needed him to not seek out the attention of other people and to learn to remain calm in all situations.
For effective training, I believe our dogs need to pay respect and be attentive to their owners. This is not possible when they are pulling, jumping, and seeking out the pets and attention of strangers everywhere you go. Just like a child, if the dog is getting over the top attention, they are likely to get overly excited.
I made the conscious decision to not let strangers pet him not only because of the need for calmness but also because I believe dogs do not need to be out merely to serve as entertainment to strangers. When I see dogs, I would love to pet them all, but in order for my ideal dog friendly lifestyle to be achieved for my dog, myself, and other dog owners, then getting pets by all of the people they run into just isn't ideal.
Pets After Training
I no longer have to wonder if Max will get excited when someone greets and pets him. I still stick with the rule, but he gets an occasional pet from time to time at specific places. He is very good at ignoring people when he's supposed to be and greeting them when I have given them and him permission. He loves the pets when he gets them, but they are a treat and a privilege, just as it's a privilege for a 90lb dog to get to go everywhere with his owner. He and I had to earn these privileges by training ourselves in the right methods of remaining calm in all places and situations. He, of course, earns all of the pets from me and his dad in all situations, especially since he is so calm and does not beg nor get overly excited when we do. He is grateful, calm, and ready to please, and gets all of the love he deserves from his parents.
Thanks to this simple rule, and positively reinforcing the calmness of my dog, I now have the most ideal and pet friendly lifestyle possible with him! I highly recommend implementing the "Do Not Pet" rule on any dog that is learning and training. Eventually, pets can be welcome once your dog learns to be calm in all situations.
About Elle Belle
At Elle Belle Pet Care, our mission is to provide exceptional and compassionate pet care services that enrich the lives of pets and their owners in Orange County, CA. We are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where pets feel loved, secure, and happy.
Meet the Founder
Lauren McCall is a compassionate and experienced pet care professional with over 15 years of expertise. She has cared for over 100 different dog breeds, both in professional care services and in animal shelters. Lauren's dedication to animals extends beyond pet sitting, as she volunteers at local humane societies and serves as an Animal Rescue Consultant for shelters and rescues across the country. With Elle Belle, she leads a team of sitters, ensuring prompt, personable, and professional service. Lauren's love for animals, from dogs to horses and exotics, drives her mission to provide the best care possible.
Through Elle Belle, she aims to foster a community that values the well-being and happiness of pets, while providing pet owners with an unparalleled level of care and customer service. With an unwavering commitment to future endeavors, Lauren aims to provide unparalleled care and customer service, reflecting her brand's exceptional reputation in the present.
