On trails, I often catch myself smiling and waving to the dog first, and then the owner. Even though I have a dog of my own, I still love meeting and playing with other dogs. I know what it’s like to have a dog and the expectation of quality service for my baby. I have a senior rescue dog, Lucy, who hasn’t learned the concept “stranger danger”. Most of my experience has with Bichons Frise and Shih Tzus, and some Labrador. Non shedding dogs and/or regularly bathed dogs are my favorite to scratch and snuggle with (if they let me). As an elementary teacher, I shape kids’ behaviors with positive reinforcement, and have found that practice to be very effective for furry friends as well.