Dog social skills – A hug…? A kiss…? Or a handshake…?


When a dog has good dog social skills they respect personal space,  use behaviours to let other dog’s know that they are not a threat and allow other dogs to have a choice of whether to interact or not. Having good dog social skills is key to a peaceful and respectful canine community.

Good manners and dog social skills come naturally to some individuals while others are more challenged, awkward or disinhibited. Social skills are learnt through experience.  The best way for dogs to learn how to speak ‘dog’ is from each other and not every dog has had the benefit of a wide social education early in life. Putting a socially inexperienced dog in a busy social arena can set them up to fail if the message they get from the other dogs is constantly negative.

Set your dog up for success by:

  1. Being fussy about who your dog socialises with;
  2. Keeping social greetings brief;
  3. Avoiding overcrowded parks;
  4. Make walks family time – focus on quality time with your dog;
  5. Recognise when your dog’s dance card is full, they may not want any new friends and that is A-OK;
  6. Address social problems early.

Please also visit and utilise the wonderful resources provided by Lili Chin in collaboration with Laura London and Sara Reusche. Dogs my dog love other dogs

Have fun with your dog!

The Team at Kalmpets

For Further Reading:
Puppy training

My name is what?

Dog training 101

What issues are you
having with your pet?


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