Many people greet dogs with enthusiasm, assuming friendly intentions always translate clearly.
Dogs, however, rely on body language and context, not human social rules, to judge interactions.
Certain common greetings can feel confusing or overwhelming from a dog’s perspective.
Misunderstood signals may cause stress even when a dog appears calm on the surface.
Learning how dogs prefer to be approached can make interactions safer and more comfortable for everyone involved.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources.
Dogs vary in temperament, past experience, and comfort levels.
Always allow a dog to approach on their own terms and consult a qualified behaviour professional if you are unsure how to interact safely.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Reaching Over Their Head
Your hand coming down from above looks threatening to a dog, especially one you’ve just met.
From their perspective, this looming gesture triggers their instinct to back away or feel trapped.
Dogs would much rather you offer your hand at their chest level, palm facing up or to the side.
This lets them approach and sniff on their own terms.
Lowering yourself to reduce your height also helps nervous dogs feel less overwhelmed.
When you give them control over the interaction, they’re far more likely to warm up to you quickly and genuinely enjoy the greeting.
2. Making Direct Eye Contact
Staring into a dog’s eyes might feel like you’re connecting, but in dog language, prolonged eye contact signals a challenge or threat.
Many dogs will look away, yawn, or show other stress signals when someone locks eyes with them.
Instead, try using soft glances or looking at their shoulder rather than drilling into their gaze.
This approach communicates that you’re friendly and non-threatening.
Watch for the dog to initiate eye contact first.
When they glance at you briefly and look away, that’s their way of saying they’re open to interaction without feeling pressured or intimidated by your presence.
3. Approaching Head-On
Walking straight toward a dog can feel confrontational to them, particularly if you’re a stranger.
This direct approach leaves them with limited options and may trigger a fight-or-flight response.
Dogs prefer when you approach from a slight angle, giving them space to move away if they choose.
Curved paths feel more polite in canine communication.
Taking a few steps to the side before getting close shows respect for their comfort zone.
You might also try standing still and letting the dog come to you, which puts them in charge of deciding when they’re ready for closer contact.
4. Bending Down And Hugging
Hugs feel wonderful to humans, but most dogs find them restrictive and stressful.
When you wrap your arms around them, they can’t easily escape if they feel uncomfortable, which goes against their natural instincts.
Dogs show affection differently than we do.
They prefer gentle pats on the chest or side rather than being squeezed or held tightly.
Pay attention to their body language during any physical contact.
If they lean away, lick their lips, or flatten their ears, they’re politely asking for more space.
Respecting these subtle cues builds trust and keeps interactions positive for both of you.
5. Rushing The Introduction
Enthusiasm is natural when you meet an adorable dog, but moving too quickly or talking loudly can overwhelm them before they’ve had a chance to assess the situation.
Dogs need time to gather information through their senses.
A better approach involves staying calm and giving them several seconds to observe you from a distance.
Let them sniff the air and watch your movements.
Once they seem curious rather than wary, you can slowly extend your hand for them to investigate.
Patience during those first moments sets the tone for a relaxed, positive interaction that respects their need to feel safe and in control.
