WHY DO YOU WANT VISITORS TO YOUR PLACE TO BEWARE OF YOUR DOG?

Signs, signs, everywhere there's signs.

For those of us who are dog owners, we might even use one to let people know we have a dog or two in the backyard. But, the message is not friendly.

But what are you trying to convey to a visitor?

Do people need to be wary of your dog or do they just need to be aware that you have a dog?

Let's take a look at the signs above. How do they make you feel? If you approached an unknown property and saw one of the first 3 signs on the fence, what thoughts would run through your head? Would you become more alert and wonder where and when the snarling dog might appear? Would your gut knot up at all? Do you think your heart rate might increase a little in anticipation of the sounds of a running dog culminating in a slam against the gate and some rather big, loud barking? Perhaps you might sweat a little? Are you envisioning a sweet friendly cuddly dog? Or are you thinking you might encounter a vicious snaggle toothed guard thing that doesn't even resemble a pet any longer and would just as soon take a bite out of your pants as look at you?

What kind of dog do you have in the backyard anyway?

 A bandersnatch?

Or a family pet?

Do we all agree that dogs have a sixth sense? That they can sense our feelings, fear, happiness, goodwill, trepidation, friendliness? Do you want people who come over to your house to be concerned and worried about your dog or do you want them to feel welcome and happy to meet him/her?

I feel this is particularly important for owners of rotties and pit bull type dogs and other misunderstood breeds. As owners of these animals, we need to take the responsible approach and do everything we can to keep our dogs safe from the ignorance in the world. Unless you have a 'killer guard dog' who really is a danger to human safety (and hopefully you do NOT), a simple note that there is a dog around should suffice. 

You are setting the tone for what people should expect from your pet(s). It may even have a subliminal effect on your guests, but it will still be there. Why not start them off with a cheery dog bone shaped note that your dog might be in the backyard?

Even these variations of the 'Dog On Premises' sign still seem to carry a negative vibe, wouldn't you agree? Note the differences in shape, color and font from the blue bone sign above.

You need not put such intimidating signs because by doing so, you are giving the impression that your dog is vicious. It is a different story for guard dogs but for home dogs, such caution creates needless fear.

There are other options, so be creative and have fun!

Your visitors will reflect your vision and the entire experience will change for the better.

Related articles:

• Think before adopting that adorable puppy or that cute kitten
• Cruelty in the name of beauty
• Don't buy dogs, adopt them
• Dogs and Islam
• When Muslims care for dogs, they face opposition (Part 1)
• When Muslims care for dogs, they face opposition (Part 2)

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