When is it okay to let your dog off lead?
For one, only in designated 'off leash' areas.
But just as importantly, when they know how to be responsible and make good decisions off the lead including having a bombproof recall and under effective control at all times.
Never does it include running up to say 'Hi' to a dog or person first, and then deciding to run back to you. To say that they just 'need' or 'want' to say hello first is an excuse for the dogs inability to have impulse control in that moment.
When you let your dog off lead, you are fully responsible for their actions. Did you know a dog running at a person or dog can be considered 'threatening' and reportable to council? It doesn't so much matter the intent of the dog as it does how the receiver perceives it.
You may be in an area like parklands or the beach that you can let your dog off lead, but consider other users of the area like people with kids and people with dogs on lead. It is not okay or acceptable for a dog to barrel towards people, kids and/or their dog on lead. You don't know their history, experience or the temperament of the dog. These people also don't know that they can trust you or your dog.
People have the right to enjoy and feel safe walking their dog on lead in public.
But let's be real, never has it ever been considered 'friendly' for a highly aroused dog to run full frontal at another dog to meet, especially another dog on lead. We see this a lot, and we see a lot of dogs being very tolerant of the confronting and rude greeting. We also see dogs who do not tolerate it and are made to look like the 'bad dog' for doing so.
Feeling attacked like this post is directed at you? Don't be reactive, be proactive! Keep a lead on your dog and contact a trainer to help you with recall and obedience.
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