Why Off-Leash Dogs and Uninvited Greetings Cause More Harm Than You Think
You’ve probably heard it before (or maybe even said it):
“It’s okay, he’s friendly.”
“He just wants to say hi.”
“He loves other dogs.”
While these comments might seem innocent enough, they’re usually said right as someone’s off-leash dog is rushing toward another dog and handler, often in a place where leashes are required.
It might feel like no big deal if your dog is friendly, but for the person on the other end of that leash, it can be stressful, scary, or even dangerous.
Not All Dogs Want to Meet Yours
Some dogs just don’t like other dogs, and that’s perfectly okay. Like people, not all dogs are social. Some are recovering from injury or illness. Some are fearful or anxious. Some are older and have less tolerance. Others simply want to be left alone.
Every dog has a story, and every handler has a right to enjoy a peaceful walk without being rushed by an off-leash dog.
Some Dogs Are in Training
Many dogs are actively working on their manners, focus, or reactivity. Whether they’re learning to stay calm around distractions or just working on the basics, these dogs need predictable, controlled experiences—not surprise greetings.
One unexpected interaction can set training back weeks or even months. In some cases, if the approaching dog is too pushy or rough, it can damage that progress or the other dog, physically and emotionally.
For Reactive Dogs, It Can Be Dangerous
Reactive dogs may have made huge strides in staying calm around triggers, but a surprise off-leash greeting can be devastating. Even a playful dog running up uninvited can feel like a threat, and some reactive dogs will defend themselves if they feel cornered or overwhelmed.
This can lead to fights, injuries, or emotional setbacks for both dogs and handlers. In worst-case scenarios, it can undo years of work or even create reactivity in a previously neutral dog.
Reactive Dogs Deserve Public Space Too
Having a reactive dog does not mean you should stay home. Handlers of reactive dogs work incredibly hard to help their dogs feel safe in the world, and they have just as much right to be out in public as anyone else.
Too often, reactive dogs and their owners are shamed or told to avoid public spaces because someone else chose not to respect a boundary.
But leash laws, space, and basic dog etiquette exist to make shared areas accessible for everyone. That includes families with children, elderly people with senior dogs, service dog teams, and dogs who are learning to be calm around others.
What About Service Dogs?
Some dogs out in public may be working service dogs or in training. These dogs are performing important tasks and need to stay focused.
An off-leash dog rushing a service dog can cause stress, distraction, or serious incidents. In some cases, it may even put the handler’s safety at risk or end the dog’s working career.
But the bottom line is this: you do not need to know why a dog needs space to respect it.
Leash Rules Are Not Optional
Leash-required areas are clearly marked for a reason. Even if your dog has great recall, is well-behaved, or just wants to play, leash rules are not suggestions.
Off-leash dogs are unpredictable. No one can fully control how dogs will react, and no one should have to risk their dog’s safety because another owner ignored the rules.
Be a Respectful Handler
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Keep your dog on leash in designated areas
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Do not let your dog approach others without permission
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Give space, especially when passing other handlers
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Do not assume friendliness gives you a free pass
Being a responsible dog owner means understanding that your dog is not everyone else’s responsibility.
Even the friendliest dog can cause harm if they rush an anxious, elderly, reactive, or working dog. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected when out with their dog, including those whose dogs need extra space.
Let’s stop with the excuses and lead with respect.