Flashing your pearly whites at your dog or anyone else’s dog is, to a dog, baring your teeth.

When a dog bares its teeth to another dog, do you know what that means? It is a sign of aggression and you guessed it…..your flashing your teeth at any canine will be perceived in the same way, that you are baring your teeth.

So, the smile you flashed as a friendly gesture just went flying out of the window, now what?

Your own dog is not a concern, it already is used to your little flub ups, but what about a strange dog who just took offense to your greeting?

If you can be reassured by this strange dog’s owner that their dog will not bite, then extending your hand in friendship may work out to your benefit, let the dog smell you first and if it accepts you, then offer your smile. This website for the veterinary clinic Indianapolis has more info for you.