Setting the Tone at Home
At Premier Canine in Bremerton, WA, we see many dogs who get a little too excited when the doorbell rings. Whether it’s jumping, barking, or racing to the door, these habits can make guests feel uneasy and put stress on your dog. Teaching your dog a calm “greeting spot” or having them sit before guests enter sets a respectful tone right away. Consistency is key—every household member should follow the same rules for greetings so your dog knows exactly what’s expected. This small but important step creates a calmer home environment for everyone.
Why Consistency Matters
Dogs thrive on predictability, especially when it comes to greeting routines. If your dog is allowed to jump on one person but scolded for jumping on another, they can become confused about the rules. That’s why a consistent plan—paired with reinforcement—helps the behavior stick. Even friends and family visiting should be given simple instructions on how to greet your dog. This ensures that every encounter reinforces good manners instead of undoing progress.
Meeting People in Public
Public greetings require an added layer of manners and control. Your dog should wait for your cue before approaching anyone—or learn to remain calmly focused on you if interactions aren’t appropriate or welcome. In dog training, we often focus on impulse control exercises to help dogs remain focused on their handler, even when new people are nearby. This ensures your dog only interacts when it’s safe and welcomed by the person you’re approaching. Over time, these habits make walks and outings more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Interacting With Other Dogs
Dog-to-dog greetings can be tricky and require careful timing. A polite canine introduction involves a relaxed approach, a brief sniff, and then disengaging before tension builds. We train dogs to read subtle signals—yawning, turning away, or wagging loosely—and to respect those cues from other dogs. At Premier Canine, our Puppy Camp and Adult Camp programs can incorporate controlled greeting scenarios. These experiences help your dog become safe and appropriate around other dogs—whether that means polite greetings or learning to calmly ignore them.
Building a Well-Mannered Companion
Proper greetings aren’t just about etiquette—they’re about safety, respect, and building trust in all settings. When your dog learns how to calmly interact with—or ignore—guests, strangers, and other dogs when needed, it reduces stress for everyone involved. These skills also make your dog a more welcome companion in public spaces, at friends’ homes, and during events. With consistent practice and guided training, your dog can become the well-mannered, confident companion you’re proud to take anywhere. Premier Canine is here to guide you through every step.