Why Your Dog’s Need for Space Changes Day to Day & How You Can Help

Have you ever had a day where everything felt overwhelming—where you just needed a little more space from the world? Our dogs feel the same way sometimes.

Just like us, the space they need changes depending on how they are feeling physically and emotionally. Some days, they may be relaxed and confident, while other days, they might need more space to feel safe. Recognising and understanding this can make a world of difference to their behaviour and well-being.

I was reminded of this yesterday with my own dog, Harry. Last week, Harry injured one of his back legs and his lower back, so he’s been in quite a bit of pain lately. He’s currently taking extra pain medication to help him for the next two weeks, which is helping. While he does his best to carry on as normal, often hiding his discomfort, I've noticed small changes in his behaviour.

For example, while we were walking earlier today, I noticed he was more watchful and alert to his surroundings. He seemed to be paying a little more attention to dogs he would normally ignore. It made perfect sense—when we’re uncomfortable, we naturally become more alert or sensitive to what's happening around us. Dogs, too, become more sensitive to their environment when they’re not feeling their best.

To help him feel safer, I simply adjusted how much space he needed from other dogs. This reminded me that our dogs' need for space isn't fixed—it changes depending on how they feel and what’s happening around them.

.

Why Safe Distances Matter

Every dog has a personal space bubble—the distance they need to feel safe and comfortable. For some, this might be a few feet; for others, much more.

When a dog feels unsafe, they may show subtle signs of stress, such as:
🐾 Licking their lips
🐾 Yawning (when they’re not tired)
🐾 Looking away or turning their head
🐾 Stiffening up
🐾 Moving behind you or trying to avoid something

If they can’t create space themselves, they may resort to barking, lunging, or growling to communicate their need foe space. By proactively giving them space, we can help them feel safer and prevent unnecessary stress.

.

When Your Dog Might Need More Space

A dog’s safe space isn’t the same every day. Some days, they may feel comfortable being closer to people, dogs, or busy environments—other days, they may need extra distance. Here are a few examples:

Pain or Discomfort – If a dog is unwell or injured (like Harry), they may feel more vulnerable and need extra space.
Environmental Changes – A quiet space one day might be crowded and overwhelming the next. New smells, loud noises, or unfamiliar dogs can all affect how much space your dog needs.
Previous Experiences That Day – If they’ve already had a stressful encounter, they may need more space to decompress.

Ways to Create Distance for Your Dog

Sometimes, giving our dogs space is simple—other times, we need to think ahead. Here are some practical ways to help your dog feel safer:

✅ Cross the street – One of the easiest ways to give your dog more space from another dog or person. A few extra feet can make a big difference!

✅ Turn and change direction – If you see something ahead that might make your dog uncomfortable, calmly turning around together can help them feel safer.

✅ Use the 1-2-3 pattern game – This game invites engagement while you move away. Calmly count "1-2-3," giving a treat on the number 3. This helps shift their focus and builds confidence.

✅ Use the environment as a barrier – Walking behind a tree, parked car, bench, or bush can provide a moment of relief for your dog when they need extra space.

✅ Choose your walks carefully – Choose locations where you have options to move aside rather than getting stuck on narrow paths or in busy areas.

✅ Consider quiet locations or secure fields – If your dog is struggling and you need to create a larger safe distance, consider hiring a secure field or walking in quieter places where you’re less likely to run into others.

✅ Practice what you’ll do in advance – Rehearsing different scenarios in your head can help you feel more prepared:

- If another dog appears suddenly, will you cross the street? Turn around? Use the 1-2-3 Pattern Game?

- If someone tries to approach, how will you politely ask for space?
Thinking through these situations in advance makes it easier to respond calmly in the moment.

✅ Advocate for your dog – Sometimes, our dogs need space, but other times, we also need to advocate for them. If someone wants to approach you, but you know your dog needs distance, it’s okay to politely ask for space. A simple, “Not today, thank you!” can prevent unnecessary stress.

✅ Engage your dog in an activity – If you're in a situation where you can't immediately move away, consider inviting your dog to play “What's This?” or, try a scatter feed, which encourages them to focus on sniffing and foraging for their tasty treats.

Giving Your Dog Space: A Compassionate Act of Support, Not Avoidance

Sometimes, we may feel tempted to just carry on or hope our dogs will cope, but creating distance isn’t about avoiding challenges, it’s about giving them the space they need to feel safe and comfortable. It’s not about holding them back; it’s about supporting them in navigating their environment with ease.

Dogs feel safest when they know they can trust us to make the right choices for them. When we understand their need for space, we help them feel safer, build their confidence, and strengthen our connection.

Have you ever noticed your dog needing more space some days? What signs did they show?