Observation is participation
Watching from behind a gate or across the room allows the dog to gather information without social pressure.
Visitors should become quieter
Ask people to ignore the dog initially, avoid leaning over, and let the dog approach and leave freely.
Short visits are easier to recover from
End while the dog can still settle, rather than waiting for barking, hiding, or frantic behavior.
What to avoid
Keep the response gentle.
Avoid luring a worried dog close and then touching them.
Safety boundary
When to get more help.
Use physical separation and professional guidance when visitor situations involve bite or escape risk.