Do not extend your hand or approach a strange dog face to face, as dogs do not like being stared at. Instead, let the dog approach you and allow it to sniff your hand to determine if you are a threat. If the dog seems comfortable, pet gently on the chest or sides rather than the top of the head. Avoid sudden movements and direct eye contact, which could be seen as threatening, and move slowly to avoid startling the dog.

1. Christensen & Hymas
5 TIPS TO APPROACHING A STRANGE DOG

3. Do not extend your hand
The dog may see this as an attack

4. Do Not Approach Face to Face
Dogs do not generally like the idea of
being “watched” or stared at, and
normally like to approach others in
curves, whether human, fellow dog, or
other animals.

5. Pet the Dog Correctly
The general etiquette is to not pet the
dog on the top of the head or over the
head. Instead, pet from the bottom of his
head, under the chin, or even the chest
area and the sides

6. Let the Dog Approach You
This is to let the dog know that you are
not a threat. The dog may sniff at the
back of your hand and may have
different reactions: he can sniff and then
walk away, think that you are a threat
and bark or growl, or continue sniffing
and act like he is asking for attention
and love.

7. Do Not Make Any Sudden
Movements
One important thing is to not look at him
directly in the eyes, as this could imply
to him that you are being a threat to
him. Move slowly, and do not lean
forward or have you head close to the
dog.