The Story of Pryanik and One Important Conversation with a Dog Trainer

Meet Pryanik. He is 10 months old. He has the body of a bodybuilder, which he wears with pride, and the temperament of an angel, which comes to him naturally. He is an American Bully.

When we walk down the street, everyone turns around. Some with delight, and some with apprehension. And I understand them perfectly. Pryanik's power is deceptive. He doesn't know what aggression is. He was bred to be a companionable and gentle dog. His main goal in life is to snuggle up to anyone who pays attention to him, whether it's me or a stranger passing by. He reaches out to people with literally his entire rock-solid body.

But one day during a walk, a dog trainer approached us and praised how I handle my dog. And then he said one very important thing: "Your dog is gold. But not all Bullies, and certainly not all dogs of other breeds, are like that. It is your responsibility to show people by your own example how to behave around unfamiliar dogs."

This conversation made me think. I love it when people admire Pryanik, but I must be the voice of reason not only for myself but for others as well.

So, here are the rules that save everyone's nerves and health.

When meeting an unfamiliar dog on the street (even if it is smiling like Pryanik):

1. ASK FOR PERMISSION! Always, always ask the owner first: "Can I pet your dog?". The owner knows their dog's temperament best.
2. DO NOT SPEAK LOUDLY OR MAKE SUDDEN MOVEMENTS. Approach calmly. A dog can be frightened by a sudden wave of a hand or a shout.
3. LET THE DOG SNIFF YOU. Extend your hand for an introduction, but not towards the muzzle — keep it low and to the side. Let the dog take the initiative.
4. DO NOT LOOK THE DOG DIRECTLY IN THE EYES. In the animal world, a prolonged stare is a challenge. Look slightly to the side or at the bridge of the nose.
5. DO NOT TOUCH A DOG THAT IS EATING, SLEEPING, OR CARING FOR PUPPIES. This is sacred. In such moments, any animal is particularly vulnerable and may react instinctively.
6. DO NOT RUN. A frightened or excited run can trigger the chase instinct. Back away slowly, sideways, without turning your back to the dog.
7. IF THE OWNER IS NOT AROUND — DO NOT APPROACH. No comments needed.

Pryanik proves by his example that appearances can be deceiving. But our shared goal is to ensure that every encounter between a person and a dog on the street is safe and predictable.

Love dogs, but respect their personal space. And then good-natured dogs like Pryanik will be encountered more often!

And now, a question! You see an unfamiliar dog on the street (even a very cute one). What are your first actions? Write in the comments.

1. I will walk up and pet it immediately, I love animals!
2. I will stop at a distance and ask the owner: "May I?"
3. I will stand nearby so the dog gets used to me.