1. Redirect, Don’t Discipline
It can be tempting to scold your dog when they get a little too friendly with a guest, but this can backfire.
Dogs don’t really understand why you’re upset, which can lead to confusion and stress. Instead, try redirecting your dog’s sniffing habits to more appropriate activities. Here are some fun ways to keep your dog’s nose occupied:
Whisker Mats
Puzzle Toys
Nose Training
Sniffer Walks
By giving your dog opportunities to indulge their sniffing instincts, they’ll be less likely to focus on your guests’ private parts.
2. Teach Them a New Trick
A good way to stop your dog from sniffing your guests’ crotches is to teach them to greet you more politely.
Dr. Sperry suggests reinforcing the “sit” command as guests enter the door. This simple trick will keep your dog occupied and avoid awkward moments. You can:
First, make sure your dog is comfortable with the high-five trick.
Ask a friend to quietly enter through the door.
Give your dog the command to give them a high-five.
Reward your dog with a treat when they do it correctly.
By rewarding polite greetings, your dog will be more likely to prefer them to sniffing.
Remember that when your dog sniffs your crotch, they aren’t being rude—they’re simply trying to learn more about you.
If your dog often sniffs between your legs or other people’s, you can see it as a sign that they’re happy and using their natural senses in a perfectly normal way! It’s simply their way of exploring the world and gathering information about the people they meet.
But if this behavior makes you or your guests uncomfortable, there are ways to redirect this curiosity. The key? Positive reinforcement! By encouraging alternative and polite behaviors, you’ll strengthen your bond with your puppy while ensuring everyone feels at ease.
