Expert Warns Against Petting Unknown Dogs in Public
Dog lovers urged to stop stroking pooches in public as expert issues warning

Image: Dailystar Co Uk
Dog owners are advised to refrain from petting unfamiliar dogs in public, as it can be frightening for the animals. Sarah Jones, founder of My Anxious Dog, emphasizes the importance of asking the owner for permission before approaching a dog.
- 01Sarah Jones, founder of My Anxious Dog, advocates for treating all unknown dogs as 'do not touch' unless permitted by the owner.
- 02Jones's rescue dog, Bella, wears yellow caution gear to signal her anxiety to the public, part of the #DogsInYellow campaign.
- 03Petting should be done under the chin rather than on top of the head to avoid appearing dominant or threatening to the dog.
- 04Jones suggests that people should ignore dogs unless they approach first, allowing them to sniff hands before any petting.
- 05The campaign aims to educate the public about dog behavior and promote safer interactions between dogs and strangers.
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Dog lovers are being urged to stop petting unfamiliar dogs in public, as it can cause anxiety for the animals. Sarah Jones, the founder of My Anxious Dog, emphasizes that every dog should be treated as a potential 'do not touch' unless the owner gives permission. Her rescue Cocker Spaniel, Bella, who is nearly 14 years old, wears bright yellow caution gear to signal her anxiety to others. Jones launched the #DogsInYellow campaign to help anxious dogs communicate their need for space without growling or lunging. At a recent event in Burley, Hampshire, she explained that yellow is recognized as the official warning color for caution. She advises that if someone wishes to pet a dog, they should first ask the owner and stroke the dog under the chin rather than on the head. Jones stresses that even those who consider themselves good with dogs should respect that an unfamiliar dog may be scared and need space. The campaign aims to raise awareness about dog behavior and promote safer interactions in public spaces.
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The campaign promotes safer interactions between dogs and the public, which could reduce incidents of dog anxiety and aggression.
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