Behaviour
The first meeting: two people, two dogs
Two people, two dogs, one first meeting: with the right place and a little patience, you're off to a good start. And if in doubt, you simply stop.
You've been messaging and it feels like a match – now you're meeting for the first time: two people and two dogs who don't know each other yet. A few simple rules turn it into a good start.
The right place
Meet outdoors, with plenty of space, somewhere neither dog visits regularly – a big meadow, for example. Your home, the garden or the usual walking route won't work: many dogs defend places like that. Leave toys and chews at home, so there's nothing to argue over.
Take it slowly
Talk to each other first, before the dogs make contact. Then walk side by side in the same direction, keeping some distance – don't walk towards each other. If both dogs stay relaxed, close the gap slowly. Keep the leash loose so your dog can move away if needed. For the first contact: no head-on approach, let them sniff briefly, then keep walking.
Look at the whole dog
A wagging tail doesn't automatically mean joy – it means excitement. So always look at the whole dog. If they move loosely, sniff the ground now and then and still listen to you, all is well. If they go stiff, stare at the other dog, back away or pant without any exertion, it's all too much for them – so increase the distance. And never punish growling: it's a warning, and it helps prevent worse.
When in doubt, stop
Calling off a meeting costs nothing. Either of you can end it at any time, even just because of a gut feeling. Then calmly walk off in different directions. Every dog is different: what comes easily to one is too much for another. If your dog keeps struggling with these meetings, get support – first at the vet's to rule out pain, then from a dog behaviour professional.