Yesterday afternoon, the Hubby and I went to Cabela's with Shiloh. I always keep a sharp eye on our surroundings, knowing that Capela's, like Bass Pro, Home Depot, and Tractor Supply, welcomes pets inside their stores.
Shiloh has a touch of wariness around other dogs, especially when they encroach on his space. Despite this, he handles encounters better while out on walks. If I spot a loose dog in the distance, I swiftly guide Shiloh in the opposite direction to prevent any issues.
Being aware that Shiloh is larger than most dogs and has a powerful bite, I understand why people might find him intimidating. However, I know that any aggression he shows towards other dogs is usually due to the energy around us and his sensitive nature.
This background sets the context for what unfolded yesterday at Capela's.
As we wandered through the store, I noticed a lady with a petite poodle. My initial reaction was not fear of Shiloh attacking the little dog, but concern for the lady's ability to manage her 25-pound pooch. Upon seeing us, she began cooing at Shiloh, prompting me to try and move away quickly.
Later on, I suggested to my husband that we take a longer route around a specific aisle to avoid the lady and her curious poodle, who was straining on its leash to get a closer look at my large dog. Unfortunately, my husband didn't catch my suggestion, so I embraced a positive outlook as we approached the lady and her poodle.
As anticipated, the small dog broke free from its leash and dashed towards my "dog-reactive" Belgian Malinois.
To my pleasant surprise, Shiloh didn't react at all – he didn't even glance back! My husband swiftly grabbed the poodle and reassured the lady that everything was under control. She seemed a bit embarrassed, but I empathized with her, knowing I have a mini schnauzer myself.
It's been almost two years since Shiloh joined our family, and yesterday's incident filled me with pride. I had underestimated him, and his composed response made my heart swell. It's moments like these that serve as a reminder not to underestimate the potential of our loved ones, furry or not.
Underestimating someone's abilities stems from negative thinking, and it's a mindset we should seek to avoid.
