Socialization
How to introduce my dog to a service dog or working dog
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
In most cases, you should not approach or allow your dog to greet a service dog while it is working, since any distraction can interrupt tasks the handler depends on for safety. Keep your own dog leashed, create distance, and only interact if the handler specifically invites it.
Understand why distance matters here
A working service dog is trained to stay focused on specific tasks, and even a friendly greeting from another dog can break that concentration at a moment when the handler genuinely needs it, which is different from a casual pet encounter.
Manage your own dog proactively
Keep your dog on a short leash and move to the side well before you are close, since even a leashed dog straining or barking toward a working dog can still cause a distracting disruption.
Follow the handler's lead entirely
If a handler specifically says it is fine to approach or their dog is off duty, follow their guidance exactly, but never assume this is the case without being told directly.
Key takeaways
- Avoid approaching a working service dog under any normal circumstance.
- Even a friendly greeting can interrupt tasks the handler depends on.
- Keep your own dog leashed and create distance proactively.
- Only interact if the handler specifically invites it.