How I approach a dog I do not know yet...

Dogs are very intuitive creatures. They are magnificent in that they have chosen to accompany us through our lives. What other mammal has chosen this?

Now look at the pup below. What does her body language say to you? To me, it says "I'm a happy goofball who is prone to be mischievous and funny". You?

This was my pup Noodle and that was her personality. She looks relaxed and happy. When I go to a client's home to meet their dogs I have a protocol. I am very quiet. I let them sniff things out.If I put my hand out to them I keep it in a fist shape to protect my guitar playing fingers. I need them. So do you, I get down to their eye level. A dog feels less threatened when I am not looming over them. I learned this as a dog musher in Alaska.

When I see their body relax, a tail wag or the eyes smile ,I know things are ok. I still move slowly while I'm in their house as the owner is showing me where the food and water etc is for the dog(s).

After they see their owner and this less of stranger now , talking with no repercussions I often see them truly calm down and they will approach ME. Its little dance . It works for me and I have lived with dogs since I was born. In Alaska I lived with approx. 100 dogs and puppies. Talk about some personalities! Too much fun.

So, I hope this helps. Remember, never just pounce a dog...unless it looks like this goofball. RIP my angel Noodle.