It's Okay If Your Dog Can't Handle Public Spaces

While the idea of taking your pup with you to all the dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, and stores can seem extremely enticing, some dogs just aren’t built for it. And, that is okay! While social media often makes us believe otherwise, not every dog has to be out in public places with you. In this article, I want to help normalize and provide an empathetic view to those who don’t feel like their dog can handle public places. Here’s some of what we will cover: -Train (and raise) the dog in front of you -Don’t force your dog (or yourself) into situations -Many dogs in public spaces have been practicing for YEARS In the age of social media, some people feel some type of cultural pressure to take their dogs everywhere! And if locations allow it, that’s great! But, what if your dog just isn’t cut out for it? While adequate training is one important factor for taking your dog to public spaces, that’s not the only consideration. Some pups have great manners overall, but just get stressed out or overwhelmed with large crowds. Some pups have great manners overall, but just get anxious when they have to settle or relax for too long while outside. Some pups have great manners overall, but may have a history of unfortunate experiences that happened in public spaces that trigger an emotional response. And guess what… THAT IS OKAY! Even though your favorite Instagram doggie account takes their pup to every dog-friendly restaurant, bar, and cafe, that doesn’t mean you have to as well. Every dog is different and our training and rearing should be unique and personalized accordingly. DON’T FORCE YOUR DOG (OR YOURSELF) INTO SITUATIONS Part of our role as pup parents is to tap into the nuances and unique personalities of our dogs. While it can take time and effort, learning to read your dog’s body language can help you understand how your dog is feeling in new (or not new) situations.  And if your dog is clearly exhibiting excessive signs of stress, what do you gain by staying at that restaurant, cafe, or park?  Of course, some stressors can be valuable but there is always a fine line. Giving your dog choices and not forcing them into undesirable situations will not only improve your bond but will also help you as the pup parent not get too overwhelmed! And forcing your pup into spaces they can’t handle often unfortunately just turns into more stress, anxiety, and negative associations in the future. It can become a vicious cycle! While many of us want to take our dogs with us everywhere we go, it’s important to remember our dog’s needs and capabilities. Some dogs don’t enjoy crowds, extended settling while outside, or being in an unpredictable place like a dog-friendly restaurant. Remember to train the dog in front of you, don’t force them into stressful situations, and be patient with their progress. If you’re looking for tips on improving impulse control and behaviors like settling/place, be sure to check out 21 Impulse Control Games! You’ll get access to easy-to-play, quick, and effective games to help improve your dog’s manners, even out in public places! Get access here ✅  https://pfrd.site/impulse-games-here