Stranger danger is a phrase used to describe the fear some dogs feel when coming into contact with a stranger. While on the street:
- Use your body to get in between the stranger and your dog. If you plan on speaking to the stranger, throw a treat behind you to entice your dog and create space from the stranger.
- Use your body to prevent the stranger from touching your dog. Try a phrase like, “No touching – we’re in training!” This phrase is generally more effective than “He’s not friendly” because people tend to respond with, “Oh, but I’m great with dogs.”
- If you’re stuck, move between cars, body block, hide and feed your dog treats on the ground to simply distract or prevent your dog from reacting.
If your dog is afraid of people coming into the home, always do meetings outside.