Camping with Dobermans

Generally the only dogs I am afraid of are the ones off leash or on those damnable recoil type. But I do have a courtesy questions from dog owners point of view, I always ask if it is okay to approach a dog. I am 6 feet tall and bending over a dog can appear to the dog to be an aggressive move, so once the dogs person says it is okay, I kneel before reaching for the dog. I feel that I've reduced my size and shown the dog I'm not a threat. After the dog sniffs and get tired of that I will gently touch the dog and then rise and talk to the person.

So what say you owners, is that a reasonable approach to putting you dog(s) at ease?