If You See A Dog With A Yellow Ribbon Tied To The Collar, Here’s What You Need To Do

by pawbuzz on in Dogs 79

Who doesn't love dogs? While some folks are afraid of them, dogs are the number one companion animal in many countries around the world. They're fun, super playful, loyal – and they look absolutely fabulous when they're showing off a brand new outfit at the dog park!

Fashion sense aside, running around and playing fetch with your furry friend at the dog park is a great way for both of you to unwind. You might even spot a new doggy friend off in the distance for your pooch to play with.

But, if you happen to spot a yellow ribbon adorning the other pup's leash, there's something important you need to know first. While it may seem like a fashion statement, there is actually a really good reason some dogs have this.

That yellow ribbon is actually a warning sign. Just like a yellow traffic light means that you should proceed with caution, a yellow ribbon tied to a dog's leash carries the same meaning.

However, proceeding with caution doesn't mean that the dog will automatically give you rabies if you happen to glance its way! It also doesn't mean that they are necessarily aggressive. It just means you should probably walk, rather than run, towards the new pooch.

This is especially important for young children that want to cuddle with every animal that comes onto their radar, or for adults that are skittish around dogs. Dogs can be skittish and nervous, too! Especially when a stranger approaches their human-doggy pack.


Facebook/The Yellow Dog Project

The Yellow Ribbon Project is a a non-profit organization that was started in 2012 by Tara Palardy, of Alberta, Canada. She wanted to help bring about public awareness for parents of DINOS – Dogs In Need Of Space. That's an easy acronym to remember, right?

The yellow ribbon actually means that the dog just needs some extra space! The pooch in question might be in the middle of being trained as a service animal, or he could have health issues. Humans have been known to be grouchy when they're sick, so it's no surprise that a dog might need some space when he's feeling down.

The yellow-leashed dog could also be unfriendly to other dogs. Which is quite understandable – after all, you don't like every human you meet, do you?


Facebook/The Yellow Dog Project

The Yellow Dog Project wants people to know tying a yellow ribbon on your dog's leash is not an excuse to avoid properly training your pup to behave! It's not a waiver of responsibility.

Should you see a yellow ribbon on a dog, remember to approach with caution, and ask the owner if you are allowed to pet them. Not only does this show respect for the dog owner, but it allows the dog to decide if they want you in their space, too. Hopefully he'll bark out a big friendly yes!


Facebook/The Yellow Dog Project

This is such a great idea! Not all dogs are friendly 24/7. It's nice to know there's a visible warning system in place so that you can give the dog some extra breathing room. Now if only these made these for humans, too!

Sources: Facebook/The Yellow Dog Project, FB Image Credit: Facebook/The Yellow Dog Project



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79 thoughts on “If You See A Dog With A Yellow Ribbon Tied To The Collar, Here’s What You Need To Do”

  11. Julie Schumacher

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    Our rescue beagle is so nervous and shy that she darts away from people that approach and get in her space… This had caused a few hairy moments. We actually had to go so far as buy her a vest that tells people to stay away. I hope the Yellow Ribbon Project really raises awareness. Ask before your approach!

  23. Geri Larson

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    Be careful though….if someone approaches the dog even after seeing the ribbon and the dog reacts – you can be held liable for any injury as you knew the dog had issues or would not have placed the ribbon on his neck. People aer getting crazy now days and sue for everything. Someone got sued because they posted a Beware of Dog sign in their yard, the person jumped the fence, the dog bit the guy and owner was responsible as he should of had the “dangerous” dog restrainded. Sad world we live in….

  26. Will Hans

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    Hate to say this, but never have had a dog not want me to pet them. I think they sense how dog crazy I am and I am calm when I approach. Guess it comes from growing up next door to people who owned and bread

  43. Cheryl Jackson

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    Didn’t know about the yellow ribbon really good idea. Really should post this at parks so people know. Just like red ribbons on horses tails mean caution horse may kick,yellow ribbon means caution dog is skittish may not be as accepting of other dogs,children, even adults proceed with caution. Very informative

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