What Does a Yellow Ribbon On a Dog's Leash Mean?

If you’ve seen a yellow ribbon tied on a dog's leash and wondered what it means, read up.

Have you ever seen a dog walking with a yellow ribbon tied around their leash or collar? It's a phenomenon that's taken off in some cities like Portland and Los Angeles, but hasn't been as widespread across the U.S. as some fans of the movement would like. But what does that yellow ribbon mean, and why do some dogs use it? We wondered the same, so we talked to the pros to find out more.

What Do Ribbons on Dog Leashes Mean?

A yellow ribbon on a dog's leash, collar, or harness means that the dog needs space. "The idea is that the ribbon indicates a dog that may be uncomfortable around other dogs or people, and anyone that sees the ribbon should give the dog space and ignore them," says animal behavior consultant Haylee Bergeland, CPDT-KA, RBT. Owners may choose to simply tie a ribbon to their dog's leash or purchase a specific bandana, leash, or collar.

The yellow ribbon movement began in Australia in 2000, after Terry Ryan established the signal in her camps and classes. The yellow signal was used to communicate that a dog needed space. The campaign first spread to Australian dog clubs and then made its way to other countries.

In 2012, Swedish dog behaviorist Eva Oliversson began the Yellowdog program. Inspired by this, Canadian dog trainer Tara Palardy created the Yellow Dog Project in the U.S. to make the general public aware of dogs who need space while training, recovering from surgery, or being rehabilitated. Palardy coined the acronym D.I.N.O.S., or "dogs in need of space."

As awareness of the yellow ribbon campaign has spread, it has expanded to include other colors. "Typically, yellow means a dog that is fearful, and red means a dog may be reactive to other dogs," says Bergeland. These are the two colors that she finds to be most appropriate and helpful.

What to Do If You See a Dog Wearing a Yellow Ribbon

If you see a dog wearing a yellow ribbon, Bergeland says to give them space! "Dog owners, and even people without dogs, should never expect that they can just approach any dog they see in public." But it's especially important, she says, to give space to "any dog with a sign or marker on them just like you would for a service dog or working dog."

Related: Here's Why It's Not OK to Pet Service Dogs (and What You Should Do Instead)

Should You Use a Yellow Ribbon?

It's worth noting that some yellow ribbon campaigns have left some dog owners and legal experts wondering about questions around owner liability. Some people have drawn parallels between the use of yellow ribbons and "Beware of Dog" signs. Owners have worried that signs may indicate that a dog owner may have known their dog is aggressive and should accept liability after an incident occurs (although cases have determined otherwise).

Bergeland says that, as in any given scenario, dog owners need to take responsibility for their dogs, including being aware of potential issues. But generally, she says it's very helpful if the public is able to identify that a dog needs space. "Of course, I think ribbons should be used in combination with a good positive reinforcement training program and support from a dog behavior consultant," she adds.

How to Use Different Colored Ribbons to Help Your Dog

If you think your dog could benefit from a little extra space while on walks, a yellow ribbon might help you send a message to well-meaning people and pets alike.

If you have yellow ribbon on hand, simply cut off a length of ribbon and tie it tightly around your dog's leash. Other dog owners have used yellow paracord to create a keychain they can attach to their dog's leash. You can also purchase yellow leashes, collars, harnesses, and vests with or without warnings on them to give your dog space.

If you're not interested in using a yellow ribbon, there are other ways you can ask for space for your dog. If anyone is getting too close to you and your dog, simply say something to the effect of, "Hi, we are in training and need a little extra space, please." Other people tend to be more understanding when you tell them your dog is in training. If people will not give you room, do what's best for your dog and move away yourself.

Bergeland says that all dog parents should advocate for their dogs in any situation and environment. No matter their behavioral history, ensure your dog has a positive experience wherever you go by avoiding heavily crowded locations or unpredictable environments.

Have you tried tying a yellow ribbon around your dog's leash, or seen them used on dogs in your neighborhood? Let us know on Instagram at @DailyPawsMag, and spread the word about the Yellow Dog Project to help bring awareness to what these indicators mean.