Hey there, adventurers and fellow dog lovers! I’m Tellie, and my life revolves around active, outdoor adventures with my dogs. We’re always on the go, whether it’s biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, or hiking. We hit the trails and campgrounds together, living out of my trailer for weeks at a time, and my dogs are a big part of this lifestyle. They’re well-trained, off-leash, they do not bother anyone and know how to stick close while I hike in areas alone with bears and mountain lions. My dogs are trained for protection and are always ready to keep us safe from any unexpected visitors.
But here’s the issue I’m running into: more and more dogs, uncontrolled and unleashed, are darting into our campsites, rushing up to us on trails, and even cutting in front of my bike. The “Oh, my dog is friendly!” response doesn’t cover it – it’s about safety and respect for others’ space.
When your dog bolts into someone else’s space uninvited, you’re creating a potentially dangerous situation for everyone. My dogs, for example, are trained to protect and defend, which means they’ll instinctively act if they feel we’re being approached in an uncontrolled way. Trust me, an enthusiastic Aussie won’t enjoy meeting my three Malinois if they sense a threat. My dogs are calm and friendly when approached appropriately, but they’re on alert for anything that disrupts our space.
So, here’s a friendly reminder: even if your dog is friendly, it’s important to keep them under control. Let’s respect boundaries, especially in shared outdoor spaces. Boundaries, training, and mutual respect are what make these adventures safe and enjoyable for all of us.
