Approaching indirectly

A non-linear approach, with a series of curves or changes in direction either circling around or moving back and forth. The dog may have its ears back and be sniffing. This behaviour may be used as a cautious, non-threatening approach.
(Goodmann, 2002)

The male German Shepherd is exhibiting an indirect approach towards the female Labrador x Rottweiler cross. He sniffs, and the female averts her gaze to avoid eye contact.

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This 6-year-old Pit Bull bitch is glancing at a stranger seated near her and is exhibiting an indirect approach. She approaches with head lowered, tail held low and wagging, ears turned sideways showing the inner auricle, and then sniffs, walking slowly and cautiously. When she is near the person, she stops, raises her head and looks at the person, licks her nose and flicks her tongue as she moves forward with head lowered. She moves away once before daring to approach. Her tail is held against her abdomen as she is being petted.

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The German Shepherd is a 4-year old castrated male. The 5-year-old Rottweiler x Labrador cross has not been allowed to meet other dogs after an episode in which she attacked and bit another dog. When the Shepherd moves toward the female with an indirect approach, she ignores him and sniffs. The Shepherd maintains his head up, glancing repeatedly at the crossbreed bitch, who looks at her owner. The Shepherd licks his nose, glances at the female, then leaves.

alertness<>attempting to flee