"do i pet the dog?" - an easy guide!

the dog approached you, and is looking at you curiously or sniffing you? it's most likely fine!

the dog is passing by or standing next to you in a crowded spot, ignoring you? they're not expecting it, so ask first, and make sure to get the doggo's attention, so they're not startled.

you want to approach someone's dog? definitely ask before you do!

in general:

don't immediately put your hand over their head. many dogs find this gesture threatening when they don't know a person. instead, hold your hand out slightly to let them sniff it, and if they don't move away nor freeze, try offering pets or scritches under the chin and on the front of the neck. if the dog seems happy about it, you can try giving them head pets and other sorts of affection.

don't lean down over a dog that doesn't know you, don't stretch out your arm to reach them, and try not to face them directly or stare them in the face if they aren't obviously interested in you.

instead, crouch down facing sideways, to make your stance as non-threatening to the creature as possible, and let them decide how much to engage.

imagine the dog is like a 3 year old human child. move at ease, don't creep slowly - the dog doesn't want to bite you, they're just watching your body language closely to assess whether you're friendly or not. let them know, by acting naturally and at ease, that you don't feel danger or tension, and neither will they ^^

hope it's helpful :wlfNomCookie: