How would you handle this?

[razz]

I walk my dog twice a day. It is peaceful, time to think, say a simple hi to passersby and enjoy the world whether cold or warm.

I have a very needy neighbour who keeps wanting to join in my walks bringing her dog. Her dog has not been trained to work on a lead. He roams around my dog who is trying to get away. We end up taking up most of the residential street which is busy.

In addition, I don't have TV because I don't want all the political melodrama. I get the daily news online from chosen sources. She keeps asking/telling me about the latest drama, death, sickness etc., on the TV when I walk by. If I stop and try to respond with courtesy, she is at my door wanting more.

The last contact, she chased after me to ask me to wait and let her get her dog, forgot her poop bag asking for one of mine when the need arose. I finally stated that my dog doesn't like to walk with other dogs which makes it hard for me to handle him. I have never had this problem with him before.

I have avoided walking anywhere near her home but that is not a solution as it limits my walking routes. I don't want her as a friend, now or ever. How does one handle such a situation? This is a new situation for me.

[bae]

I just tell folks I'm actively training a reactive dog, and ask that they respect our need to work alone.

[CathyA]

That's a hard one, razz. Could you bring yourself to come out and tell her that these have been very calming, quiet walks for you and your dog and you appreciate that she was just trying to be nice (well, maybe not really).......but you're sorry, but you need to go back to taking the walk alone with your dog. Don't be surprised if she gets pissed.........but hopefully she will leave you alone.
And maybe you could go over to her house (without your dog) and just talk to her that way. That might be easier than her being all ready to walk her dog with you.
Good luck, and let us know how it goes.

[pinkytoe]

I have a hard time being direct in situations like that so the avoidance principle would be my tactic. I would try to sneak out the door when she's not around or go out the back door and down the alley. My hope would be that she gets the message if avoided often enough.

[bae]

http://i.imgur.com/LeM35GM.jpg

Sometimes the hat also repels casual conversationalists.

[Simplemind]

It sounds like she is lonely and needs to connect. Is there any way you could offer a bit of time or a cup of coffee when it is convenient for you? I think it takes so much energy to avoid somebody or swallow my irritation by going along and not saying anything. Just be honest and contact her saying that although you enjoy her aquaintance your dog walking time is quiet/meditative time for you.

[razz]

Love that hat idea. :D I find it hard to be unkind to someone but she has lived in this community for years before buying into this neighbourhood so not sure what her issues are beyond not accepting 'no thanks' from me as an answer. If someone was a newcomer, I might introduce him/her to options that are available for social support. Her mother lives not far away. Being firm but saying that my dog needs quiet undisturbed discipline in our daily walks is a really good suggestion. Thanks.

[Tybee]

My brother has a border collie and I have a very reactive dog, so I feel your pain. My brother used a great line that I am thinking of stealing-- "She's not quite ready for prime time."
It made the point without any hurt feelings.

[Teacher Terry]

Avoidance! But it sucks that you have to alter your route because she is overstepping her bounds.

[Mary B.]

Sometimes the hat also repels casual conversationalists.

Anyone ever try to rescue you from it? (the hat i mean not the hound)

[bae]

Anyone ever try to rescue you from it? (the hat i mean not the hound)

The dog has tried, several times. He's convinced I'm being attacked by a badger.

[Mary B.]

The dog has tried, several times. He's convinced I'm being attacked by a badger.

Ah, he shares my concern.