Tips and myths around dogs

Many of us have been told that a dog wagging its tail is a sign that the dog is happy. Unfortunately this is NOT always true.

Research shows us a tail wagging only shows that the dog is engaging with something in its environment. This could be in a positive or negative way. You need to look at the whole body not just the tail.

Always ask permission

This means ask the owner if you can pat the dog. This also means that if the dog is by himself, tied up outside a shop or café, DO NOT touch. You do not know the dog; his likes or dislikes. You may be wearing a hat and the dog is scared of hats, carrying an umbrella or he may just not like strangers.

By asking permission you are letting the dog know you are there so if you are allowed to pat him he wont get a fright.

Which brings us to the next point...

A wagging tail does not always mean he is happy to see you, The Dog Safe Workplace explains

Side and back

Remember where the bitey end of the dog is and stay away from the head and face. Only pat the dog on the side and back. This is especially important with children.

If anyone approaches a dog head-on to pat it and the dog does not want to be touched, it could decide to have a bite. For a child, the face is right next to the dogs mouth. The majority of bites to children are on their head and face.

If they are standing to the side of the dog to pat its back, if the dog doesn’t like it he can move away. Worse case scenario he may bite the hand, but the child's face is nowhere near the dog's.

Stand like a tree

We regularly get people telling us how dogs run up to them and the first reaction if you are scared or don’t like dogs is to run or turn you back and move away.

We recommend you stand like a tree or put something between you and the dog, a bag, a coat, or anything that if the dog does go to bite will be between you and the dogs mouth.

Do not move. What you are trying to do is to make yourself as boring as possible to the dog. Any sudden movements or running away make you more exciting.

If you would like any more information or you would like to discuss your options please contact us on: jo@dogsafeworkplace.com 0508 DOG SAFE +64 27 737244