Stranger Danger

Donna Darrell
Jan 10
2 min read

Thank you for fostering or adopting! Many dogs need a little extra support when meeting strangers. With patience, space, and lots of tasty treats, you can help your dog build trust safely and comfortably. Here’s a simple, effective protocol to follow.

Step 1: Prep Your Stranger

Before the meeting begins, make sure the stranger has high-value treats (like small pieces of hot dog or string cheese). These treats are the key to helping your dog form positive associations.

Step 2: Start the Introduction Outdoors

Keep your dog on a leash and harness.
Meet outside where there’s more space.
Maintain about 7 feet of distance between the dog and the stranger.

Step 3: Treat-Tossing for Confidence

The stranger should:

Toss treats away from themselves and toward the dog.
Stay still. If the dog moves closer, the stranger may take a small step back, not forward.
Never reach toward or approach the dog. Let the dog make all the choices.

If the dog takes treats but immediately backs away, the stranger should toss the treat and then increase distance each time.

If the dog won’t take treats at all, increase the space between them.

The dog decides the pace. Their comfort level controls the distance.

Step 4: When the Dog Approaches

If the dog confidently takes a treat from the stranger’s hand, great, let the stranger feed five small treats. Then take a 1–2 minute break to reset everyone.

Step 5: Move Indoors

Go inside together, any order is fine, but maintain ample space for safety and comfort.

Once inside, repeat the same treat-tossing protocol:

Follow the dog’s lead.
Keep distance until the dog chooses to come forward.
If they take treats, let the stranger feed five pieces and allow the dog to drag the leash.

Step 6: Add Gentle Movement

When the dog is comfortable:

Have the stranger walk slowly around the room, casually tossing treats.
After 1–2 minutes, have the stranger sit on the couch and toss treats away from their body.
Do this for as long as everyone is comfortable.

When you’re done:

Either put the dog in their crate to decompress, or
Have the stranger leave calmly.

Practice Makes Progress

For lasting improvement, practice this protocol with around 10 different strangers. Repetition builds your dog's confidence and teaches them that new people = good things.