We get it - dogs are adorable. It's hard to walk past a wiggly tail or puppy eyes without wanting to stop, squeal, and reach out for a pet. But here’s a hot take more dog lovers need to hear:

Just because a dog is out in a public, dog-friendly place does not mean they’re there to be pet by strangers.

That pup you’re eyeing? They might not be out on a joy stroll. They could be deep in training, working through a behavioral issue, or learning how to exist in a high-distraction environment without becoming overwhelmed.

You never know what someone is working on. Many dogs in public are learning how to handle:

• Overexcitement around people or other dogs

• Reactivity (barking, lunging, growling) triggered by stress or fear

• Shyness or fearfulness, especially with strangers

• Impulse control, such as learning not to jump or pull on leash

• Submissive or excited urination

• Barking or whining due to overstimulation

• Disengagement from distractions (like ignoring strangers in public)

And these are just a few examples. Dog training is an ongoing process, and for many owners, every walk or outing is part of a larger plan to help their dog become a calmer, more confident companion.

Respect the Dog-Human Team

If you see a dog in public and want to say hi, here’s how to do it respectfully:

1. Ask the owner first. Always. And not as you're reaching out to pet the dog—before you move a muscle toward them.

2. Ask if the dog is in training. If they are, ask how you can support the process. Often, the best help you can offer is just giving them space.

3. Respect their answer. If they say no, smile, thank them, and move on. It's not personal—it’s training.

“But Dogs Love Me!”

We hear this a lot: “I have dogs at home.” “I’m a dog person.” “Dogs always like me!”

And that may all be true - but this dog isn’t your dog. Their guardian is responsible for their safety, emotional well-being, and training goals. When you approach without permission, even with the best intentions, you may be undoing weeks or months of hard work.

Let’s Normalize Not Touching Dogs in Public

Some dogs will eventually love being approached and pet. Others may never be comfortable with it—and that’s okay too. Dogs aren’t public property, and respecting their space (and their human’s wishes) is one of the kindest things you can do.

A HUGE problem we hear often is "my dog is great until there is a person or other dog around" and many times this is due to the fact that they have been reinforced since puppyhood from other humans and dogs. The obsession the American culture has of petting other people's pets in public (and also when visiting a friend's house who has a dog) is that it has caused dogs to become overly aroused when they see other humans. 

So next time you see an irresistibly cute pup in public, pause. Make eye contact with the owner. Ask. Be open to “no.” And better yet - just admire them from afar and walk on.

And celebrate the fact that you just helped a dog on their journey - even if it was just by giving them the gift of space.