RE: What's something dog owners know that everyone should know?
That's a good lesson, Nick. I also have a dog that is afraid of people. She will come around to you after a few meetings. But, I have to warn people not to try to pet her on first meeting. It's amazing how many adults do not know you shouldn't reach out and pet a strange dog.
What I would want non-dog owners to know is that it's not mean to set boundaries for a dog. I've had people say that it's wrong to crate a dog, it's mean to deny them treats when they beg, and so forth. No, it is not mean. A dog needs structure. If you fed it every time it asked, it would be a hundred pounds over weight. You need to set boundaries so they grow up with manners. You wouldn't raise a kid by letting them run wild. You don't do it with a dog either.