When “He’s Friendly” Isn’t Friendly: How to Deal with Off-Leash Dogs and Unaware Owners

You’re walking your dog in an on-leash area, enjoying the peace or working on training, when suddenly, out of nowhere, an off-leash dog barrels toward you.

You hear it:

“It’s okay, he’s friendly!”

But your dog is not okay with this. And neither are you.

If you’ve experienced this (or dread it every time you leash up), you’re not alone, and you don’t have to just smile and accept it. Here’s how to handle those situations with confidence and safety in mind.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess

Take a breath. Your priority is to protect your dog and stay composed. Dogs feed off our energy, so even if you’re feeling frustrated (understandably), staying as calm and clear-headed as possible will help.

If the oncoming dog isn’t aggressive but just overly enthusiastic, your reaction can help prevent escalation.

Step 2: Block and Body Shield

If the dog is coming toward you:

• Place yourself between the dogs. Step forward calmly to block.

• Hold your leash short but loose, enough to guide your dog but not so tight it builds tension.

• Avoid yelling at your dog. They didn’t cause this situation.

• Do not pick up your dog. This often escalates the situation, and may trigger the approaching dog’s prey or chase drive.

Use your body as a barrier and maintain a firm stance.

Step 3: Use Clear Verbal Commands (For the Dog and the Owner)

Sometimes an off-leash dog will pause or back off with a firm voice. Try:

• “Nope!”

• “Back!”

• “Go home!”

• “Get!”

Say it clearly, loudly, and confidently. Avoid high-pitched or panicked tones. Use your firm, no-nonsense voice.

If the owner is within earshot, you can say:

• “Please leash your dog. This is an on-leash area.”

• “My dog needs space. Call your dog back.”

• “Your dog shouldn’t be off leash here.”

You don’t owe them an apology for enforcing boundaries.

Step 4: Carry Tools (Just in Case)

You don’t need to be aggressive, but having simple deterrents can help:

• A pet corrector (air can) or loud whistle

• A foldable umbrella to open and create space

• Treats or a tossed handful of kibble to redirect the approaching dog

• A walking stick (not for hitting, just to create visual space)

These tools are like a seatbelt. You hope not to need them, but it’s better to have them.

Step 5: Don’t Get Dragged into an Argument

Some owners will get defensive. “He’s friendly” or “She just wants to say hi” might be followed by excuses or blame.

Stay calm and stick to the facts:

• “It doesn’t matter if your dog is friendly. This is an on-leash area.”

• “My dog is in training and needs space.”

• “It’s not safe or respectful to let dogs approach without permission.”

You don’t need to explain further. You’re not overreacting. You’re advocating for your dog.

You have every right to walk your dog in peace, without being rushed or overwhelmed by someone else’s dog.

Being proactive, prepared, and assertive (not aggressive) is key. And always remember:

Advocating for your dog isn’t rude. Letting your dog break the rules is.