Meeting a new dog is one of the best parts of pet sharing. It is also the part that matters most.

The first minute sets the tone for everything that comes after it, for the dog and for you. The good news is that it is easy to get right. Here is a calm, kind way to say hello.

1. Ask the human first

Before you even look at the dog, ask the owner: "Can I say hello to your dog?"

If the answer is no, smile and move on. Owners know things you cannot see, like a sore spot, a training goal or a dog who feels nervous around new people. The American Kennel Club's guide to greeting a dog you don't know puts this first as well: if the owner says no, back off, even if the dog looks friendly.

2. Let the dog choose

Stand still and let the dog come to you. If it walks over, it is saying hello back. If it hangs back, give it space, even if the owner says it is fine.

Reaching toward a dog takes away its choice. Waiting gives it back.

3. Turn a little sideways

Walking straight at a dog and staring can feel pushy to a dog. Turn your body a little to the side and keep your eyes soft, glancing at the dog from the corner of your eye instead of locking eyes.

4. Offer a calm, still hand

Make a loose fist, hold it still and let the dog sniff if it wants to. Do not push your hand toward its face. Sudden movements can startle a dog.

A white puppy with a black ear held gently in a person's hand Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

5. Pet the friendly spots

Most dogs like a scratch on the side, the neck, the back or the chest. Skip the top of the head, and never hug or hold a dog you do not know. A good question for the owner: "Where does your dog like to be scratched?"

6. Watch, listen and keep it slow

Keep your moves gentle and steady, and check how the dog responds. Does it lean in for more, or step away? Stopping the moment it says "enough" is how you earn a friend.

One more tip from the AKC: kneeling puts you at the dog's level, but it also puts your face close to its mouth. If you are not sure about a dog, stay standing.

For families: "Be a Tree"

If a child meets a loose dog, the AKC suggests teaching them to be a tree: stand still, tuck the arms in, fold the hands in front and look down at the ground. Practising it at home helps it become a habit.

Your first Bloom meet-up

On Bloom, you never meet a pet by surprise. Every member has had their ID and address checked, and the owner decides who meets their pet, what they do together and for how long.

Our safety page suggests meeting somewhere public the first time, writing down the pet's routine and an emergency contact, and saying no whenever you are not sure. A check cannot tell you whether someone is good with a shy cat or a busy puppy. That is why owners chat and meet first.

Ready to meet a furry friend nearby? Browse pets and people near you, or see how Bloom works.

Sources and photo credits