If you’re a dog owner, then the love and affection from your own little guy is more than enough. If you haven’t got a dog, however, then you want ALL the dogs to love you! Don’t you wish every dog jumped with joy and came running towards you whenever you visited the park? Some people just seem to (annoyingly) be natural dog magnets. Luckily, we’ve learnt a few tricks along the way on increasing your dog magnetism:
1. Come bearing treats
An obvious one, but the way to a dog’s heart is (frequently) through it’s stomach! If you carry around treats in your pockets (preferably the stinky, meaty kind), you’re sure to have plenty of canine friends wherever you go. It’s important to remember that before giving treats to a dog you don’t know, you must ask the owner for permission.
2. Baby talk ’til you drop
You may seem a bit crazy talking to all the dogs at the park in a high-pitched voice, but there really is some K9 science behind this. Dogs usually perceive low, loud voices as threats or an indicator that they are doing something wrong. By interacting with them using a high-pitched, happy voice you will seem friendly and inviting.
3. Rethink your fashion choices
Many of the day-to-day clothing and accessories we think are fashionable can be pretty terrifying to dogs (although socks and sandals are terrifying to us humans too). Umbrellas, big coats, odd-shaped bags, large sunglasses or crazy hairstyles will also make dogs weary of you. Perfumes and aftershaves can be very confusing to our four-legged friends because it distracts their nose from your personal smell.
4. Be the life and soul of the pup party
You’re well on your way to becoming a dog magnet by now, however, Rome wasn’t built in a day. To gain the friendship and trust of your favourite dog buddies, you’ll need to spend quality time playing with them. Show them that you’re the most fun human around! Play games of fetch and jumping for sticks, run around like crazy, practice tricks… the possibilities are endless!
5. Never be the ‘bad guy’
Our furry friends never really forget a bad moment. As much as possible, avoid being associated with negative experiences with dogs you are trying to befriend. If you’re training or dog sitting them, use positive reinforcement to let them know what you want and don’t want them to do. If they are casual park buddies, leave their education to their owners.
Is your dog magnetism at it’s full potential? What are your tips and tricks?