Why Most Dog Introductions Go Wrong: Leash Greetings, Socialization, and Neutrality

In this episode of Think Like a Dog, Andreia and Millie break down why so many dog-to-dog introductions go wrong and why humans often put too much pressure on dogs to “make friends.” They discuss why on-leash greetings can create tension, frustration, reactivity, and miscommunication, especially when dogs are pulling toward each other or being forced into an interaction.

This conversation also explains why “dog friendly” is not always a clear or helpful label. Dogs have different personalities, limits, social skills, and preferences, and a successful greeting with one dog does not mean a dog will do well with every dog.

Andreia and Millie talk through what healthy introductions should look like, why neutrality should come before socialization, what body language owners should watch for, and how shelter volunteers, fosters, adopters, and everyday dog owners can set dogs up for more successful interactions.

This episode is especially helpful for dog owners dealing with leash reactivity, rescue dog introductions, dog park issues, multi-dog households, foster dogs, and anyone trying to better understand dog behavior and socialization.