Why I Don’t Let My Dog Greet Other Dogs On-Lead — And Why That’s Okay

why-i-don’t-let-my-dog-greet-other-dogs-on-lead-—-and-why-that’s-okay

Meet Efa, my 8-year-old Welsh Collie. She’s clever, sensitive, and incredibly loyal — but one thing we don’t do is on-lead dog greetings. Ever.

That might surprise some people. After all, dog socialisation is important, right? But here’s the thing: context matters. And so does the individual dog.

Let me explain why I choose not to let Efa greet other dogs on the lead — and why that boundary isn’t just okay, it’s essential.

The Problem With On-Lead Greetings

Many dogs find on-lead greetings inherently stressful. When dogs are on a lead, their natural ability to communicate — especially through body language and movement — is restricted. They can’t move away, create space, or use calming signals in the way they might if they were off-lead.

In Efa’s case, this lack of choice creates tension. She can’t avoid uncomfortable interactions, which makes her feel vulnerable and defensive.

She has snapped at other dogs on-lead in the past. Sometimes she’ll tolerate a greeting, and other times she won’t. The truth is, I can’t always predict which way it’ll go — and that’s not a risk I’m willing to take. Not for her sake, and not for the other dog’s.

Efa’s Story: Pain and Past Experiences

Efa was born with significant hip deformities. She’s had both hips removed through FHO (femoral head ostectomy) surgeries, and she lives with chronic pain. While she copes incredibly well and enjoys an active, enriched life, her physical limitations affect how she experiences the world — including how she feels about other dogs.

As a young pup, Efa was jumped on by an over-exuberant dog. The pain it caused stuck with her, and she’s never forgotten it. As a result, she’s especially uncomfortable around bouncy, boisterous dogs — particularly when she’s on the lead and can’t escape.

But Isn’t She Social?

Yes — Efa is a social dog in the right circumstances. She can happily coexist with other dogs off-lead, walk alongside them, and even share space calmly and confidently. The key difference? Choice.

When she’s off-lead, she has options. She can disengage, create space, or choose to interact on her terms. When she’s on-lead, that autonomy disappears — and that’s when problems arise.

Boundaries Are Not a Failure

I don’t avoid on-lead greetings because Efa is “bad” or “untrained.” I do it because I know her. I respect her. I advocate for her needs — just like I would for any dog in my care.

It’s easy to feel pressured by social expectations when out walking our dogs. Some people still assume all dogs should say hello to each other on walks. But the truth is, not every dog wants — or should be expected — to do that.

Efa’s boundaries keep her safe and happy. They also protect other dogs from potentially stressful or unsafe encounters. It’s not about isolation. It’s about setting her up for success.

What This Means For You and Your Dog

If you’re reading this and thinking, “my dog struggles with on-lead greetings too,” I want you to know: you’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong by setting boundaries that work for your dog.

Here are a few reminders:

• Your dog doesn’t owe anyone a greeting.

• Being social doesn’t mean saying hello to every dog.

• Advocacy is part of good training.

• Choice and space are powerful tools.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Efa has taught me so much about consent, communication, and the importance of listening to our dogs. Choosing not to allow on-lead greetings isn’t a limitation — it’s a compassionate, thoughtful decision based on who she is and what she needs.

Let’s normalise dogs who say, “no thanks.”

Because boundaries aren’t barriers — they’re protection. 🐾

Written by: Ellen Coop, Dog Trainer & Behaviourist The Urban Herder

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