Dog Walking Etiquette - Non-Dog-People

Even in San Francisco you can come across someone who does not like dogs, regardless of the breed. It’s kinda like going to Hawaii when you don’t like water but whatever. And with a Pit Bull this is especially true. Don’t try to convince these people that your dog is friendly and not the kind of dog that they fear. That is rude. Respect their phobia. Phobias are irrational by definition, so don’t get offended. There is no reason to antagonize these people.

Grab your leash tightly to show you are in control, and continue to walk. This is another good reason to not be on your phone, unaware of your surroundings. I can usually spot these people from half a block away. You can see their stress and hesitation as you approach. I will not necessarily cross the street, but I will tighten the leash and show our intent to pass swiftly.

It goes without saying your dog should be on a leash in the city at all times. I don’t know what happens when a non-dog person comes across a unleashed dog. I imagine that could turn into a real scene. It’s actually amazing how many people walk unleashed dogs in San Francisco. My goal is to always to avoid confrontation, so aside from just being stupid I don’t know why you’d try to manifest confrontation. But these are the type of people who say “Oh don’t worry! He’s super friendly…”. Again, it’s just rude. It’s never OK to force your sh*t on others, and denying someone’s right to not feel threatened by your dog, as irrational as it might be: is.

Recognize their right to fear, be stoic and move on.