Every time we see one I remind my boys. Remember honey if the dog is wearing a vest they are busy working so we just look and don’t touch. My oldest usually says I know in an exasperated tone while my youngest looks sad but listens.

Agreed! I’d like to add to never encourage your child to pet ANY dog until after you’ve asked the owner! You never know if a dog is friendly! Never just assume.

I am teaching my daughter the same rule for all dogs that we encounter in public: Wave and say hello to fluffy. She will do just that and if it is a service dog I tell her they are working and explain that they help their mommy/daddy. What I hate is when I tell my little girl NOT to touch,that it's NOT OK, and the owner encourages her against my wishes. I wish people would offer to let her pet their dog, rather than insisting. Just because you trust your dog does not mean I should instantly trust them just because you say so. I have two dogs who I do trust, but even so, I am still cautious about others petting them. Anything can happen when you least expect it.

I tell my daughter that all the time when we're out and about and we see a service dog not to engage. Unless the dog is resting then it's okay to ask. She loves dogs just as much as I do and always wants to pet them.