rufusontheweb

We’re big advocates for visiting both on-leash and off-leash parks and trails. We assert it’s great for our hounds to be comfortable in both environments. However, what I dislike a lot is when we’re at a designated on-leash venue (with clearly posted signs) and one human decides to let her dog off leash. Moreover, I really dislike it when said dog comes charging at my hounds (on leash) and her human proclaims from a distance, “It’s okay. He’s friendly.”

Two things: First, any declaration that your dog is friendly is fine, but that presumes mine are. If you don’t know me or my dogs, it’s probably best not to assume anything and ask before allowing your dog to greet mine. But wait, he was off leash and therefore she had no control. Hum. See the conundrum?!? Second, let’s say for example, your dog is truly friendly and mine aren’t. Your dog races up to mine excited and out of control while mine are on-leash and your dog gets bit. I would not be liable with animal services because it was your dog that was not obeying the rules but running off-leash. In fact, you run the risk of getting a citation by disregarding the rules and ruining the fun for everyone.

It comes down to mutual respect and consideration of your fellow man. Dogs on leash greet and interact differently than when they’re off leash, and too often controversy or trouble will arise when one is on-leash and one isn’t. Listen from time to time, I have taken my dogs off-leash while at an on-leash trail or beach – when I thought we were all alone, but when I notice another dog or person, I quickly get control of my dogs and ask the other person if they’re okay with the dogs being off-leash. Which I believe is the polite and proper thing to do.

What do you think dachshund friends!?? Is this reasonable train thought?? What has been your experience???

Rufus, Lily & Emily | January 2015. Photo by: Johnny Ortez-Tibbels ©