Forcing greetings creates 'frustrated greeters.' Here is how to raise a calm, neutral companion instead.
In the UK, we pride ourselves on being polite. We think letting our puppies meet everyone is 'good' socialisation. Actually, it teaches them that every stranger is a high-octane reward.
When they can't reach that 'friend,' they bark and lunge. It's not aggression; it's a desperate, over-excited need to interact that you accidentally trained.
Imagine sitting in a busy pub garden in the Cotswolds while your dog snoozes under the table, ignoring the chaos. That's true social success.
Stop training in the middle of a frantic field. Find a 'neutral' zone. A quiet corner near a Tesco car park or a bench overlooking a path is far more effective.
Use the Engage-Disengage protocol. Reward your dog for noticing a distraction, then give a 'jackpot' reward when they choose to look back at you.
Dry kibble won't win against a squirrel or a ball. Use roast chicken or cheese to make choosing you the most profitable deal in the park.
If you do allow a greeting, use the Three-Second Rule. Let them sniff, count to three, then lure them away. This stops the excitement from boiling over.
When an owner shouts 'He's friendly!', use your 'Not today, thanks!' shield. Protecting your dog’s space is vital for their calm mindset.
Lip licking, yawning, or a 'hard stare' mean your dog is at their limit. Increase the distance immediately before they lose their neutrality.
Is your dog already a frustrated greeter? It’s never too late to re-wire their brain. It just takes more distance and better rewards.
Neutrality isn't about being unfriendly. It's about teaching your dog that the world is interesting but doesn't require a reaction. It's the ultimate gift of calm.
Get the exact Engage-Disengage scripts and our 'High Street' survival guide to transform your walks.