How to pet a dog? Discover how to make your dog more social
Do you know how to properly pet a dog? Petting a dog is not to easy as you may think, at it usually depends on the dog breed. The way you pet your friend can make you his favorite person or, on the contraty, the human he’ll always try to avoid. Anyway, petting your dog will make him more social.
The first rule of petting is never pet a dog who doesn’t initiate contact. It doesn’t matter if it’s a big dog, rather, invite him to make the first contact by squatting down so you are closer to his level. Get to know your dog, particularly if you have a strong stubborn breed like a pit pull.
Avoid hovering over the dog when greeting him: this can be perceived as a threat.
Once the approach has been made, pet the dog slowly in areas where he is comfortable being touched: back, chin, chest and belly, but don’t do it over a bloated stomach.
Socializing is an essential element which characterize your dog’s personality. It is very important to get him socialized since puppyhood. Interacting with his counterparts will help him become well-balanced and well-behaved, you can even share a beer for dogs together!
Playing helps your dog get adult. It is also a way to simulate fights, prove his own strenght and define his status.
It is important for him to learn how to control these situations without any help from the owner.
When your dog is playing with other dogs, try not to interfere, even though it gets a bit aggressive and physical. Remember that dogs like to play like that.
Most dogs dislike being touched on top of the head and on the muzzle, ears, legs, paws and tail, unless they have any disease. A dog who enjoys petting will usually lean toward you or actively seek contact with you when you stop petting him. If the dog attempts to move away or displays signs of discomfort, such as licking his lips or showing the whites of his eyes, give him some space.
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