I like to form a bond first and establish trust. I'll let the dog sniff and get my scent and show him that we're friends and we're gonna have fun together. I love animals so I like to show affection by petting, silly dog talk and positive reinforcement. Once I feel the dog is comfortable with me we can begin a walk or feeding while maintaining the friendship with the pup or cat if they have a cat. I dont mind stopping to let me dog sniff and do what dogs do while keeping safe and maintaining control of the dog. I know they need to get their doggyness out so I'll go for a light jog also. Dont mind picking up poo also. I've been a dog owner for three years to my dog roxy. Shes an akita and whippet mixed...interesting combo but she is definitely an great dog. When I was just a baby, i had a dog named puppy. It died before I could remember anything, but I heard stories from family about how I loved my dog puppy, and would hang out with him in his dog house. Life went on and never even considered having a dog or pet. A few years back my sister insisted that I needed a dog, Naturally i said no. She said if I didn't, then she would get a dog, so I gave in. I saw and adopted Roxy from pet co. Her profile said that she was abandoned and had an abusive owner. After a week or so of having roxy I couldn't help that I wanted to be there for and protect her always. Roxy melted my heart. She is very sweet and intellegent. If she could talk, I hope she would say that she's happy that I'm her owner.