Topic: | use the lead | |
Posted by: | Alan Clark | |
Date/Time: | 20/08/15 14:40:00 |
Here's the problem - actually two problems - which have caused this excessive reaction. First, dogs that young should really be on the lead when in public spaces. My guess is the dog's training has not reached the point when it will immediately and always return when called. So simple courtesy is to keep young partly trained dogs on the lead, unless in a place with no-one nearby to be bothered. Owners should not let their dog force itself onto people who do not want it near. If you can't fully control the dog off the lead, get it on the lead. Second, owners of young dogs like the associated acknowledgement of the loveliness of the pup. They enjoy the indirect attention when others proclaim the little pup's cuteness. It makes them feel good. So the slight of someone who does not like the pup - and is willing to demonstrate this clearly - is made doubly worse. Not just mild hurt to the dog (I doubt any real hurt) but hurt of rejection to the owner. So, use the lead unless you are certain such events can't be repeated. And accept your over-reaction is partly based on your desire to be associated with the love so many will give to your puppy. And simply suck it up in the few occasions that doesn't happen. |