A small sign is intended to simplify communication between dog owners – that’s why you occasionally see a yellow bow on dog leashes. But what does the note mean?
If an unknown dog runs towards someone, the person concerned is not always happy about it – and that’s how it feels for some dogs too. Although the animals are very social creatures and like to sniff other dogs when they go for a walk, there are situations in which they need peace and quiet. That’s what the yellow ribbon is for.
What does the yellow ribbon mean on dogs?
A yellow bow on the dog leash or collar means: “Please keep your distance.” Some dogs also wear a yellow bandana. Both accessories are intended to signal to other people or other dog owners that the dog should not come into contact with other dogs or people.
The inspiration for this comes from Sweden and is called “Gulahund”, which means something like “yellow dog”. The idea behind the yellow ribbon: Dog owners should recognize from a greater distance that they should keep their distance from their dog and, if necessary, put them on a leash.
When does a dog wear the yellow ribbon?
If a dog owner wants to use the yellow ribbon to prevent his animal from coming into contact with other dogs or people during the walk, this may have the following reasons, among others:
- The dog is sick and should not infect other animals.
- The dog is in heat.
- The dog is old and tired.
- The dog is fearful or insecure.
- The dog is currently in training.
- The dog is injured.
- The dog is new to the owner and/or is learning to walk safely on a leash.
- The dog has had bad experiences with other dogs.
The yellow ribbon is intended to prevent misunderstandings and to give other dog owners the opportunity to avoid an encounter themselves or to let the dog and owner in question avoid it.
However, the prerequisite is that everyone involved understands the advice and knows how to behave correctly.
