Animals operate on instinct.
Behavior can be changed by training, therefore, a pet's behavior depends on the owner.
Smell and sounds can also be controlled by the owner, and polite communication with said owner usually gets co-operation.
Some people have an aversion or phobia to animals, if so, it is only considerate to keep a pet away from the individual, they are genuinely fearful or upset, not being mean.
Sylkat