What is social distancing?

According to the CDC, “social distancing”, also called “physical distancing,” means keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.

To practice safe social or physical distancing, stay at least 6 feet away from other people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Social distancing should be practiced in combination with other everyday preventive actions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including wearing cloth face coverings, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, and frequently washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Let’s do our part to be part of the solution.

Here is a measuring guide to social distancing in dog ears, according to Fido. (Not CDC official, but it’s fun). Social distancing in dog ears is a good way to measure.

What do experts recommend for social distancing dogs?

Experts typically do not recommend “social distancing” for dogs in the same way they do for humans, but there are specific scenarios—such as during outbreaks of infectious diseases (like canine influenza or a novel zoonotic virus)—where limiting contact between dogs or between dogs and unfamiliar people/animals may be advised.

During Disease Outbreaks (ex. canine influenza, kennel cough):

• Avoid crowded dog parks, boarding facilities, and group training classes.
• Keep walks local and on-leash to prevent nose-to-nose greetings with unknown dogs.
• Maintain distance from sick animals (symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy).
• Disinfect leashes, bowls, and bedding if exposed to shared environments.

If a Pet Owner is Sick (ex. COVID-19 or another contagious illness):

• Limit close contact with pets (kissing, petting, snuggling).
• Have another household member care for the pet, if possible.
• Wash your hands before and after handling pets, pet food, or pet waste.

Puppy Socialization Needs:

• Experts emphasize balancing disease risk with critical social development:
  • Safe exposure to calm, vaccinated dogs is still recommended for young puppies.
  • Use controlled, well-vetted environments like small puppy classes led by trainers with vaccination protocols.

Bottom Line:

In conclusion, dogs don’t need full isolation, but strategic distancing during disease outbreaks or when owners are ill can prevent transmission of illnesses. For puppies and healthy adult dogs, regular social interaction is key to preventing behavioral issues. Just do it smartly and safely.

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Original: 07/07/2020; Updated: 05/07/24