Jumping, barking, and lunging are all undesirable behavior issues for your dog. Though they may seem annoying yet harmless to you, these actions can appear aggressive to other people and animals. This behavior can alienate your loved ones and cause them to overlook all of the positive qualities your dog offers.
To avoid these misunderstandings and help your dog be their best version, train it to be polite — or at least indifferent — to strangers.
By working consistently with your dog, you can correct the behaviors you don’t want, reinforce the positive ones you want, and build an even deeper bond with your best friend.
Aggressive dog dangers
First, you need to understand why training your dog to be polite is so important.
Not only can aggressive dogs be hard to handle, but they can also put everyone around them at a higher risk of injury from an attack.
Dog attacks can lead to serious, lasting injuries, including scarring, broken bones, and even traumatic brain injuries for the victims. If your dog injures someone, you can be liable for damages and medical bills, and depending on the laws in your state and the situation itself, you may have to put your dog down.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs yearly. Specific populations, including young children and mail carriers, are at a higher risk of injury.
Children may not know how to interact safely with animals, but mail carriers are often forced to deal with strange and possibly aggressive dogs to do their jobs.
Though some dogs never show signs of aggression before attacking someone, it’s unfair to put others at risk if you think your dog could be aggressive.
If you fear your dog could be prone to biting, it might be wise to consider using a muzzle.
Train your dog to be polite
It’s your responsibility as a pet owner to be able to control your dog — not only for the safety of other people, animals, and property but also for your dog’s wellbeing.
Your dog is merely reacting to the world the way it knows how. As its owner, it’s your job to guide it.
Even if your dog isn’t aggressive, you should still train your dog to be polite to a variety of people.
No matter how sweet your dog is, there are other factors that you can’t control, such as speeding cars or other animals, that can harm them or others.
Training is a great way to strengthen your bond and build trust with your dog. It also helps ensure the safety of everyone around you.
Training techniques
Teaching your dog to be polite to strangers is crucial for their socialization and your peace of mind.
Here are some effective training techniques to foster good manners:
Desensitization
Start by gradually exposing your dog to strangers at a distance. Allow the dog to observe people without direct interaction.
Slowly decrease the distance as your dog becomes more comfortable. Use treats to reward calm behavior during these encounters.
Positive reinforcement
Reward your dog for calm and polite behavior around strangers. Whenever a stranger approaches, give your dog treats, praise, or playtime if it remains calm and doesn’t jump or bark.
This reinforces the idea that good behavior leads to positive outcomes.
Use obedience commands
Teach your dog the “sit” and “stay” commands to help manage their impulses when meeting new people.
Practice these commands in various settings with increasing levels of distraction. Reward your dog for staying seated and calm when strangers are nearby.
If you need help, consider working with a professional trainer.
Leash training
Use a leash to prevent your dog from rushing toward or jumping on strangers.
Practice walking on a loose leash and keeping your dog close to you when encountering new people.
If your dog remains calm, reward it immediately to reinforce the behavior.
Controlled introductions
Arrange controlled meet-and-greets with friends or family members.
Have them approach slowly and allow your dog to sniff and become comfortable at their own pace.
This helps your dog learn that not all strangers are a threat and can lead to positive interactions.
Teach an alternative behavior
If your dog tends to jump or bark when meeting strangers, teach them an alternative behavior, such as turning away or going to a designated spot.
Use a command like “go to your mat” to redirect their energy to a more acceptable behavior.
Socialization classes
Consider enrolling your dog in socialization or obedience classes.
These classes allow your dog to meet people in a controlled environment and help strengthen training through professional guidance.
Consistency is vital
Be consistent with commands and rewards.
Ensure all family members and guests follow the same training efforts.
Consistency helps your dog understand what is expected around strangers.
By applying these techniques regularly and patiently, you can help your dog develop polite and friendly behavior towards strangers, ensuring enjoyable outings.
Benefits of good behavior
A well-behaved dog enhances the owner’s and the pet’s quality of life.
Here are some primary benefits:
Stronger bond
A well-mannered dog fosters a deeper connection between pet and owner.
Training builds trust and understanding, creating a more enjoyable relationship.
Easier social interactions
A dog that behaves well in public is more welcome in social settings.
Whether at the park, during a visit with friends, or at a pet-friendly café, a dog that listens and respects boundaries makes outings more enjoyable.
Safety
Good behavior means better control over your dog, reducing the risk of accidents or mishaps.
A well-trained dog is less likely to run into traffic, jump on strangers, or enter dangerous situations.
Reduced stress
Well-behaved dogs create a calming atmosphere at home and in social situations.
Their ability to remain calm and follow commands can help alleviate stress for their owners and others around them.
Easier care
With a well-trained dog, routine activities such as walks, vet visits, and grooming become more manageable.
Your dog becomes less likely to pull on the leash or become anxious in new environments, making these experiences smoother for everyone involved.
Positive reputation
Owners of well-behaved dogs tend to receive positive recognition, leading to more opportunities for socializing and connecting with other dog owners.
Mental stimulation
Training a dog provides mental engagement for both the pet and the owner.
Teaching commands and tricks keeps the dog’s mind sharp and provides fulfilling challenges that strengthen their relationship.
Happier home
A well-behaved dog contributes to a peaceful household.
With fewer behavioral issues, your home will become more harmonious, leading to a more enjoyable everyday life.
Better health
Training often involves physical activity and mental challenges, essential for a dog’s overall health.
A well-behaved dog will likely be more active and engaged, contributing to their physical fitness.
Easier preparation for new situations
A dog accustomed to following commands and expectations acclimates better to new experiences, such as travel or changes in living situations.
Provide encouragement and space
Whether your dog fears strangers or is territorial, you can still train them to be neutral to unfamiliar people.
It will take time, effort, and consistency, but it is achievable.
Keep these tips in mind as you start training:
- Warn visitors to ignore your dog entirely. They may be tempted to pet or greet it, but by not paying attention, your dog will begin to learn that other people won’t interact unless the dog initiates.
- Provide visitors with treats to give to your dog while still ignoring them. Your dog will make the connection that strangers give out free food, which will help reinforce that other people are a positive thing.
- Whether it’s their beloved crate or another room in the house, give your dog a place to escape if it feels overwhelmed. Watch for any sign of excitement or stress. Do not force your dog to be social; that may cause it to lash out or attack.
Take things slowly when you begin, as moving too quickly can overwhelm and confuse your dog.
You can increase your expectations as the dog becomes comfortable and less fearful.
Over time and with plenty of encouragement, even the most fearful and reactive of dogs can learn how to be kind to strangers.
Devin Morrissey prides himself on being a jack of all trades; his career trajectory is more a zigzag than an evident trend. He pops up across the Pacific Northwest, dragging his dog whenever possible. You can follow him on Twitter.