Portuguese at a Dog Park: Introductions and Polite Questions
Use short, considerate questions to check whether another dog is comfortable meeting before you bring the animals closer.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
A simple Tudo bem se eles se conhecerem? means ‘Is it okay if they meet?’ Ask the other person before your dog approaches. Not every animal wants to interact, and the owner can tell you what is comfortable for their dog.
Ask before letting dogs approach
You can also ask if the dog is friendly with other dogs or if it is better to keep some space. A calm question makes your intention clear without assuming a greeting is welcome.
Tudo bem se eles se cheirarem?
Is it okay if they sniff each other?
Ele costuma ficar tranquilo perto de outros cães?
Is he usually calm around other dogs?
Prefere que eu mantenha um pouco de distância?
Would you prefer that I keep a little distance?
Describe your own dog's behavior
Tell the other owner what you know about your dog: Ela é tímida no começo (She is shy at first) or Ele gosta de brincar (He likes to play). If a behavior is uncertain, say so rather than promising how the dog will react.
Use na guia for on a leash and sem guia for off leash. Follow posted park rules and the other person's boundaries while you talk.
Ele está na guia e costuma cumprimentar devagar.
He is on a leash and usually greets slowly.
Ela ainda está aprendendo a ficar perto de outros cães.
She is still learning to be around other dogs.
End the interaction politely
If either dog needs space, say Vamos dar um pouco de espaço (Let's give them a little space). If the greeting goes well, you can ask the dog's name or age with Como ele se chama? or Quantos anos ele tem?.
Do not assume that a friendly exchange means the animals should keep playing. Check with the owner before each new interaction and watch for their response.
Vamos dar uma pausa e deixar os dois descansarem.
Let's take a break and let them both rest.
Como se chama o seu cachorro?
What is your dog's name?
Put it into practice
Ask before a dog approaches, describe your pet honestly, and give both animals space whenever an owner asks or a dog seems uncomfortable.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Is it okay if they sniff each other”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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