Some dogs are naturally comfortable in crowded places. They love the different sights and smells. However, that’s not the case for all of them.
You may not know how your dog will respond until they’re in a crowded and loud place. That’s why every dog owner should be prepared beforehand.
Start By Assessing Your Dog
It can be difficult to know exactly how your dog will react in crowds or to loud and sudden noises. The best approach is to see how it is meeting different people, preferably ones it has never met before.
Take your dog to a small dog group and see how it reacts to other dogs and humans.
You should be mindful of the signs of stress. Dogs usually show stress with some or all of these symptoms:
- Excessive panting
- Flattened ears
- Tail tucked in
If you’re dog shows signs of stress in a small group, it’s almost certain to have issues in a crowd. It doesn’t mean don’t take them into a crowd. You simply have to be prepared.
Invest In The Right Gear
The first thing you need is a good quality dog harness, such as this dog harness by Dog Friendly Co. Sure, they make it easier to control your dog; they’ll find it hard to dart off anywhere.
More importantly, a harness feels snug on your dog; it will help to reassure it that you’re with it and everything will be okay.
You’d be surprised at how much difference this makes.
It’s also worth considering putting a bandana on your dog; it will make them easier to spot if they do get separated from you.
Finally, make sure you have a water bottle and bowl for your dog. Taking them out of a crowd and giving them a drink can calm them.
Build Up Slowly
This one is fairly obvious, especially if you don’t know what they will be like in a crowd. Start small, with a few friends, then a small dog group. After that, perhaps a small market while it’s quiet.
Gradually increasing the number of people in the crowd will make it easier for them to feel safe in busy places.
Ensure They Respond To Commands
Commands such as ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘heel’ are excellent for controlling your dog and helping to keep them safe. All dogs should know these commands before they enter busy places.
However, it’s more than just doing what they are told. Familiarity with your voice and a specific command can help keep your dog grounded. This reduces their focus on the business around them and will help them stay calm.
Keep Them Close
Whether you’re in a small crowd or a large one, keep the lead short and make sure they are always next to you. It’s easier for you to keep an eye on them, and for them to feel safe.
Take Regular Breaks
No matter how comfortable your dog gets in busy places, make sure you take regular breaks. Give them water and treats to remind them they are doing well.
It will help to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.
Summing Up
Almost any dog can handle busy and loud places; you just need to start small and gradually increase the size of the crowd and the noise level.
Make sure you reward them with treats for all good behaviour, it will reinforce the pleasure of crowd.
Finally, trust your gut. You know your dog, and if you think they’ve had too much, get them out of there.
