1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote.
On meeting new dogs
Dog Trainer Auckland
December 9, 2025
1 Tip - on life with your dog
Going on holiday with dogs who don’t know each other?
Start with a parallel walk in a neutral location like a park or beach. Walk them in the same direction, keeping at least 2 metres apart. This allows them to adjust to each other calmly before you introduce brief interactions and, eventually, supervised time together.
1 Idea - on the leading edge
When unfamiliar dogs meet, they naturally move in a curved arc rather than heading straight toward each other. They may look away, turn their heads, pause to sniff the ground, or investigate nearby scents. These are calming signals that communicate peaceful intentions and help ease tension.
Not all greetings go smoothly. Watch for signs of discomfort, such as direct staring, a stiff posture, or a straight-line approach. Tight leads can also interfere with these natural movements and may inadvertently increase tension.
If you feel unsure or the interaction doesn’t look comfortable, guide your dog in another direction and reward them for following you.
1 Quote - on dogs
When meeting a new dog, distance is your friend; it gives you options and space to decide whether to interact or not. Dog Trainer's mantra
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