Managing dog encounters/meetings correctly – How to avoid problems

Dog encounters are often challenging—whether on a leash or off-leash. To ensure such encounters are as stress-free and safe as possible, there are some important rules to follow. Especially in certain situations, misunderstandings between dogs or mistakes made by owners can lead to conflicts. In this article, you'll learn what to look out for.

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1. Basic rules for dog encounters

🐾 Do not let dogs near other dogs without asking – Not every dog ​​is friendly or gets along with other dogs.
🐾 Observe dogs’ communication – body language is crucial to detect tension or insecurity.
🐾 Speak to your own dog first and ask for permission – An “okay” should only be given when the situation is safe.
🐾 Ensure recall – If tensions arise, your dog should respond to recall.
🐾 Don’t force contact – Some dogs need more space or don’t want direct contact with other dogs.

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2. When can my dog ​​go to another dog?

✅ When both dogs show relaxed body language.
✅ If both dogs already know and like each other.
✅ When it is ensured that none of the dogs are sick, injured or anxious.
❌ An encounter is not allowed:
🔴 If one of the dogs is very nervous or tense.
🔴 When your dog pulls on the leash and is excited.
🔴 If the other dog owner does not want contact.

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3. My dog ​​is getting nervous because he isn't allowed to go – what should I do?

Some dogs become frustrated when they aren't allowed to be with other dogs. This can manifest itself in barking, pulling, or whining. Here's how to help:
✔ Calm training with distance from the other dog.
✔ Establish alternative behavior, such as eye contact with the owner or a signal to wait quietly.
✔ Clear management – ​​No pulling on the leash! Reward calm behavior and build patience.

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4. Different dog constellations

🐶 Single dog meets single dog – Usually uncomplicated, as long as both are friendly.
🐶🐶 Several dogs encounter a single dog – This can result in group behavior or dominance behavior. Be careful if a dog feels threatened.
🐕🐩 Male and female dogs from the same household meet other dogs – Intact males, in particular, can display territorial behavior. In these cases, the greeting should be controlled.
🐕‍🦺🐾 Puppies meet adult dogs – Not every adult dog has patience for puppies. The puppy should learn to respect boundaries.

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5. When can I safely let my dog ​​off the leash?

✔ If it is safely accessible.
✔ If you can see the surroundings and no uncontrolled situations arise.
✔ If the other dog owners agree.
✔ Important: Not all dogs can cope with off-leash contact.

❌ Do not untie if:
🔴 You cannot reliably call your dog back.
🔴 Your dog immediately rushes towards other dogs.
🔴 The surroundings are confusing (e.g. lots of people, roads or cyclists).

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6. Encounters in your own home or when visiting another dog

A dog visit is a special situation, as territorial behavior and possessiveness can play a role.
🏡 When a dog comes to your home:
✔ Make the greeting controlled and relaxed.
✔ Give the visiting dog time to explore.
✔ Let your own dogs relax first, then integrate the visitors.

🏡 If you visit another dog with your dog:
✔ Let your dog arrive outside first.
✔ Do not lead the dog into the other dog’s territory immediately – meet on neutral ground first.
✔ Respect for the other dog’s resources (toys, food, sleeping place).

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Conclusion

Dog encounters are more relaxed when they are well managed. Always observe body language, set clear rules, and don't force contact. With good preparation, you can avoid problems and ensure stress-free encounters for your dog.