The Yellow Dog Project Gives Dogs Their Space
By Kyle McKay, Guest Writer
everyone is unique. We each have our own likes and dislikes, personalities, and comfort zones.
Dogs have these personality traits too, but sometimes, it can be hard to remember this when you meet a dog for the first time.
Some canine companions are very friendly. They’ll run up to you wagging their tails wildly, practically begging you to pet them and play with them. This is usually the default expectation for most people when encountering an unfamiliar dog in public.
But it’s important to know that’s not always the case.and even if your dog is friendlythat doesn’t mean every dog the two of you meet will be.
Just like humans, some dogs need a little more space than people expect. A dogs can be timid and suspicious Surround yourself with new animals or people. But how do you know when this is the case?
This is where yellow dog project Play a role. The Yellow Dog Project is a global social movement in which dog owners place yellow ribbons, scarves or bows on their dogs’ leashes or collars as a warning that their dogs need space.
these dogs are called DINOS, or “The Dog That Needs Space.” You should not assume that DINO is aggressive, dangerous, or completely unapproachable. Often, these dogs have fear or pain issues due to recent surgery, or may be rescue or shelter dogs that have not been adequately socialized and are still in training.
If you see a dog with a yellow ribbon, for whatever reason, be sure to steer clear and leave plenty of room until the owner says it’s ok to move closer.
The project started in September 2012 after its founder, dog trainer Tara Palardy, found a similar idea on a Swedish website.
While Palardy thought the idea of the Swedish group was great, she thought more could be done to spread the word, so she started a The Yellow Dog Project Facebook Group.
Drivers have grown accustomed to yellow as a warning color, as it is used to warn drivers of dangers on the road. It seemed like a natural choice to use this subtle but distinct sign to tell people that dogs need space.
The project benefits all participants; dogs that need space get it, and their pet parents no longer have to repeat their dog’s need for personal space to strangers, a process that can be tiring and even embarrassing.
With increased awareness, the movement can also Help Prevent Dog Bite。 Both children and adults can refrain from pushing the dog into an uncomfortable corner where it appears to the dog that the only option is to bite.
“Why dogs bite is a complex topic, but I think the main reason dogs bite is out of fear,” trainer Mike Wombacher of Dog Gone Good explain. “Most bites happen to young children because they can’t understand the signals a dog might be giving that they don’t want to be approached or petted.”
Wombacher, who has more than 20 years of dog training experience and has conducted about 20,000 home behavior consultations, says managing your dog is key.
“By management, I mean owners know how their dog will behave in certain situations and help their dog avoid situations where the dog may feel vulnerable or uncomfortable.”
And that’s where The Yellow Dog Project can help.But beware: Tie a yellow ribbon on your dog will not limit your legal liability In the event of an attack.
Kyle McKay writes on pet-related topics, including general information about pets Affordable Dog Insurance Options and other pet-related news. He also enjoys learning how to publish pet-related news on the web.