Why You Shouldn’t Approach a Dog With a Yellow Ribbon or Bandana Anywhere in New England

I'm such a dog lover, and if you are too, you can totally relate. You're out walking your favorite trail in New Hampshire or Maine, or enjoying some sightseeing with your dog along the water in Massachusetts, and see a dog that you want to say hi to or pet. We love to see their wagging tails, big smiles, and excited eyes when we say hi. And I'd like to think most of us ask before we just start petting a stranger's dog.

Being a dog owner myself, I know my playful pooch wants everyone we come across to pet and chat with him. However, like me, I'm sure you've experienced owners and their dogs who aren't really into strangers saying hello and petting their doggo. And for the most part, you ask first (at least I do).

According to Reader's Digest, while we like to think that all dogs are playful, others are fearful, anxious, shy, have health issues, or are acclimating to a new environment. Whether it's their personalities, or something else like a trauma-related situation, health, age, or nerves, only the owner knows.

So if you happen to see someone's dog walking toward you, make sure to stay away from them if there is a yellow ribbon or bandana around their neck or on their leash. Those yellow items are an indicator that the pet needs space to feel safe and protected.

Reader's Digest says this yellow ribbon or bandana could mean anything. The dog could be blind, or suffering from PTSD. Or, maybe the doggo just had surgery, is new to the family, or is anxious or shy around other animals or people. The pooch could even be in training, whether it's a puppy, older dog, or rescue learning new ways to be comfortable in society and around all of the outdoor stimulation.