When recently asked to advise on a dog problem on the beach I took a drive to Broadsands near Paignton in Devon (which was absolutely stunning).
The clients and I walked down the promenade looking down on the beautiful beach below and the mass of dogs all running around, interacting and socialising with each other. Going into behaviourist mode I think “ah this must be the problem, the dog has been unsociable on the beach”. To my surprise the leash was quickly released from the dog’s collar with the owner saying “Oh you don’t mind if she just has a quick run with her friends”. A bewildered reply form myself saying “oh which ones are her friends?” to which the owner replies “all of them”.
What a lovely sight to see, all these dogs playing together, running in and out of the sea, the owners chatting and catching up on events.
What a wonderful social life, not only for the owner but the dog too!