Off-Leashed Tongue Lashings

Dear Dog Lady,

I walk with my dog Bebe around a reservoir where dogs are most welcome. However, I feel Bebe and I are having a big problem of "situational ethics". There is a sign posted that says something about how all dogs need to be controlled off leashes. While Bebe and I have been walking very nicely on the leash, unleashed dogs have run up to us to play. When we start playing, the owners of the unleashed dogs will run over screaming about how their dogs can’t play with leashed dogs because it “threatens” them. This has happened twice. What should I do or say to these people? Maybe I am unaware of some dog psychobabble. Please help me understand so Bebe and I can walk in peace.

Sue, Somerville, MA

Sue, next time threaten to sue – with a smile.

Yes, for some rigid dog owners, there is a psychobabble – bowserbabble -- that is hard for the newcomer to decipher. When Dog Lady first got her dog, she felt intimidated by diehard dog people who thought they knew better.

These unleashed dog keepers are obviously speaking in code. Their dogs aren’t threatened, but the people are threatened by your choice to walk your dog on the leash. Under the guise of fretting about their dogs, they’re chiding you for not taking off Bebe’s leash. It’s a political thing.

Actually, leashed dogs are the ones who can feel vulnerable or intimidated by unleashed dogs. But it sounds as if Bebe is fine when approached by unleashed dogs. You’re by her side and all’s right with the world. Your dog plays with the unleashed dogs without incident. They’re not chewing off Bebe’s head and she’s not chewing off theirs. So everything’s under control.

There is clubbiness in urban dog country. Certain dog owners feel they know what’s best for their dog and everybody else’s dog. They take it upon themselves to lecture, or scold, or act holier than thou – even as the dogs are oblivious.

If you want to engage the “threatened” owners, you might want to point out the obvious -- that the dogs are playing happily in their leashed and unleashed states. Or, if you merely want to enjoy a peaceful walk around the pond, simply shut up and move on. You choose to walk your dog on leash. Your dog enjoys the outing and thinks you're perfect. What else could possibly matter?

Posted by Dog Lady at July 17, 2003 03:13 PM