Want to become fast friends with a dog? Hannah from David Cuffe & Associates has a Hound Hacks training trick to show you how to quickly and easily become friends with any dog you meet.

• Most dogs have a ‘sweet spot’ at the base of their tail.
• Once they’ve made your acquaintance, they’ll absolutely love a good scratch here and keep coming back for more.

Meeting new dogs

Meeting a new dog is very exciting, for both human and dog. It can also be quite a nerve-racking time too - what happens if your new pawtential furry friend is shy? Or if they’re don’t warm to you straight away? Well, we’re here to put some of those worries to rest with these top tips for meeting, greeting and befriending new dogs.

Finding the right location

Owners will know where their dog is most comfortable, this may be in their home or at their favourite park. It may be best to ask beforehand if there is any behaviours or things you should avoid. For example, they might instruct you not to ring the doorbell as their pup might get over excited.

Sniff hello

Letting a dog sniff your hand is a great first introduction. It’s good practice to stand a small distance away from them and give them opportunity to approach you first. They’ll most probably give you a quick sniff and wander off. If you’re lucky they may welcome you with an offering to pet them, if they do, take the opportunity!

Tasty treats

The owner may have some treats to hand. Ask if you can give some to your new furry friend to help with your introduction and to positively reinforce their happy behaviour towards you. See if they know any tricks or commands too.

All the cuddles

Once you’ve made your first introductions and the dog is ready, why not give them chin tickles?

Encouragement and enthusiasm

Remember to stay positive, even if your furry friend hasn’t quite warmed to you yet. A higher tone of voice can be helpful. If they seem to be happy and they would like to play, remember to keep that enthusiastic high tone too.

We hope this helps you on your next meet with a pooch! Remember, try not to be disheartened if a dog doesn’t take to you straight away, these things can take patience and effort, but we’re sure after a few treats and stroke, you’ll be making firm friends soon!

This article is for information only, and should never replace any advice, diagnosis or treatment from your veterinary surgeon. Always contact your local vet or out of hours vet without delay if you have any concerns about your dog or their behaviour.