First, I wish I had more time to comment on everything that people post on in Fearful Dogs. I became a dog trainer because of my inexperience when I raised my pup and the first two years I used force methods and he became extremely dog reactive. That is the reason I became a dog trainer so others may learn not what to do to prevent behavioral issues. The point I want to make today is protect your dog when in public. Dont worry about being graciously rude...or just rude. I brought my 5 year old dog to a picnic. I knew there would be other dogs there and Lexi is awesome sociable and reads other dogs well. The first dog we met was a huge 200 lbs Mastiff. Awesome, appropriate meet and greet. My dog was on leash, the other dogs werent (4). I brought a 12 ft leash so I could give enough lead without tugging for greetings. The 2nd dog we met was not so gracious and put his head over Lexis shoulder, she butted him and gave him many signs to tell him to bug off. She then gave an appropriate growl and snap. The dog still ignored all her signs and I stepped in, told my dog Get Behind so I could guard her and body block the rude dog. The owner said...he just wants to play. He wont hurt her. I told her he is being very rude and my dog doesnt want to play and it is apparent your dog is not getting the message. It is okay to stand up for your dog and it is your job to protect your dog from rude people and rude dogs. Just as you would protect a child from a bully kid, protect your dog.
Posted on: Sun, 24 Aug 2014 15:09:44 +0000