19/08/2026
It is 100% important to read body language not just of the dog but also it’s handler . When I’m out walking if I see a dog on a lead mine go on a lead . If mine are reactive and on lead I either change direction or if that’s not possible I ask them to leash their hounds explaining my hounds unpredictability. That is what makes Nanny B’s hounds happy hounds 🥰🐾🐾🐾🐾 .
Today I saw a woman walking a dog who was clearly nervous, anxious or reactive.
She was keeping her distance, sitting calmly with her dog and doing everything she could to manage their space.
As we got closer, I could see her body language change.
I recalled the dog I was walking, got him sitting beside me and worked out which way I could go to give her more space.
Then another dog appeared from the other direction.
I could see her worry immediately. She turned around and I could almost feel the stress.
I've been there.
So I called over and asked if she'd find it helpful if I went another way and gave her more space.
She said yes.
So I did.
I also told her she was doing an amazing job and that I walk nervous dogs too, so I completely understood.
And it really highlighted something for me:
People don't always notice.
A dog being on a lead doesn't mean they want to meet your dog.
Someone changing direction isn't being rude.
Sometimes they're advocating for their dog.
Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is simply notice what's happening around you and give someone the space they're clearly asking for.
You don't need to know their story.
Just pay attention.
That little bit of awareness can make a HUGE difference to someone else's walk. 🐾
