05/31/2026
🚨 PSA: Stop trying to pet other people’s dogs! 🚨
At the very least, ALWAYS ask permission before approaching someone else’s dog.
Why?
Because you don’t know that dog’s history, temperament, or training goals.
Maybe the dog is fearful of strangers.
Maybe the dog is reactive.
Maybe the dog is overly friendly and the owner is working hard to stop them from running up and jumping on everyone they see.
Maybe the dog is in training.
Maybe the dog bites.
There are countless reasons why an owner may not want people—or other dogs—approaching their dog. Respect that.
If you ask and the owner says yes, great! Go ahead and say hello. But walking straight up and reaching for a dog puts the owner in an awkward position. Many people struggle to say no, even when they want to.
Remember: it’s their dog. Their time, effort, training, and responsibility.
And if you simply love dogs and want some canine affection, there are thousands of dogs in shelters that would love your attention. Consider volunteering instead of approaching random dogs on the street.
And to the dog owners out there: if you don’t want someone petting your dog, it’s okay to say NO. You don’t owe anyone access to your dog.
