How does a #dog learn dog #etiquette?

Why do I get along with other Dogs?  Because I'm so friendly

         I see some dogs at the dog park and they are frightened and shy.  Others, like Gizmo, fit right in, almost immediately.  How did he learn that?

         At the gate, Gizmo stands perfectly still and allows all the dogs who are there to sniff him.  He stand perfectly still for the few seconds of inspection, after which, as soon as one of the dogs doing the sniffing turns slightly away, they all go about their business (chasing balls, finding owners, playing with abnd growling at other dogs). 

         This is a signal that Gizmo can sniff as much as he wants.  He does, even standing on his tippy toes to reach the most fragrant parts of a huge St. Bernard that is the size of a small cow. 

         When this is over, Gizmo is free to chase after anyone who indicates he or she wants to play with him, although the unwritten rules state that any ball thrown by  an owner belongs to the owner’s dog, although all others are free to chase the ball along with the dog who is going for it.  Any other dog who gets to the ball first should give it up to the owner’s dog to bring back to the owner.

         Follow these simple rules and peace will reign in the dog park.

          “Why would I buy dog treats when my dog loves to eat Kleenex?”  Tweet from Ciboux.