Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

I have a 5yo male German Shepherd that can be dog-aggressive but becomes socialized when he's around other dogs routinely. My problem is that when I am out with him for on-leash walks and exercise, that other off-leash dogs frequently attack my dog. Old dogs, young dogs, male or female it doesn't matter.

My understanding of this is that the other dogs perceive my alpha dog as a threat and so attack my dog first. I always fend off these fights and run the other way but it causes me a lot of problems.

I want to socialize my dog but I don't know what to do about other dogs attacking my dog when we are just minding our own business. What I do now is to stay away from other dogs but then that works against socializing my dog. What should I do?

JCustan from Arizona

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RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

I'm sorry not to be able to offer advice, I just wanted to say I know what it's like to be bothered by some one's off leash dog. Why do people let their animal run all over others' property? (01/09/2009)

By kimhis

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Dogs are often more aggressive on leash because they are tied to you, which makes them less able to move as well as they feel the need to protect you. Also running in the other direction can create prey drive and they will give chase for fun. I'd find a small group class and explain the situation with your dog. They will usually work with you. (01/09/2009)

By stinger

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Get a can of citronella spray to spray the other dogs. Will not hurt them, but they will leave. (01/10/2009)

By Toebeanie.

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

I have to agree with Kimhis. I can't even walk my dogs in my own neighborhood. For some reason, my neighbors think they are exempt from leash laws. I know I could turn them in but then what would they do to retaliate? It's not right. (01/10/2009)

By Artlady

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Dog park! That is how I socialize my dogs. The good thing about dog parks is that for the most part (there are exceptions) the owners look after their own dogs so there aren't any real problems. Of course fights happen, but my dog park is normally really good. Plus, your dog can be off his leash and get to enjoy himself more! I would just try it out, it couldn't hurt. (01/12/2009)

By JoniB

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Ask your vet, but my best guess is that your dog is challenging them with his eyes. Dogs look at other dogs in ways that mean certain things. I know my German Shep intimidates one of my other dogs by looking at him, and when she does this, he will whimper and not walk past her until I tell her to stop looking at him. Sounds a little crazy, I know, but it's true.

I have a special needs husky that doesn't see very well, so my Shep is probably annoyed that she can't intimidate her :). I love my dogs. They are such fun. My cat doesn't care that much for them, however. They keep stealing her catnip mouse. (01/23/2009)

By stngray

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

You could also try a loud horn (like an air horn) to use if a strange dog tries to attack. It usually scares them away. You can try to socialize your dog by taking him to an obedience class. This way he gets to be around other dogs in a controlled situation. (02/06/2009)

By kallyc

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Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Does anyone have any ideas on training a 4 year old Yorkie? He is aggressive when we walk him and he sees other dogs. He hasn't been neutered. We were thinking of getting a muzzle. He's getting a little embarrassing. Please can someone help? Is socialization class the answer?

By kateh09 from Gainesville, FL

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RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Here is a link that I use for dog training. It is a great site. Also, I would not put the dog under the stress of going to a class just yet as there is some groundwork training to be done,

leerburg.com Good luck! (07/09/2009)

By Robyn Fed

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Socialization is the answer, but you are going to have to accomplish this without the dog hurting or biting another dog and that can be tricky. I think at this point, you should involve a professional trainer to show you exactly how to socialize your dog in a safe way. Good luck. The dog aggression issue can be difficult to fix, but your dog is worth the effort! (07/09/2009)

By Rchinaberr

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

I would read and watch the Dog Whisperer (Cesar Millan) books and shows or go on his site to get some help or seek some other professional help. There is a lot of stuff on line. (07/09/2009)

By lorijb

RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Neuter him ASAP. He wants to be the alpha dog. Little dogs also have the "little man syndrome". They always think they are bigger than they are. Neutering is also better for his health. Dogs do get prostate cancer just like people. I work in a vet hospital, so I have some knowledge. Because he is older, it will also take several months for the testosterone to leave his system. Good luck! (07/10/2009)

By Sadielew

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Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

I have 10 month old Cocker Spaniel. We recently took him to a dog park that we had not been to in a while and he was very aggressive towards other dogs, nipping one on the tail and almost got into a fight with a Pit Bull. Needless to say we put him on a leash and took him to one of the enclosed areas. He is not aggressive towards my daughter's dog whom he has been around 3-4 times.

I am laid off and cannot take him to a trainer at this time, however I would think this is something that can't wait and needs to be addressed now. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

By Kelly from Denver, CO

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RE: Socializing a Dog-Aggressive Dog

Try this web site for tips:

positively.com

It's the site of dog trainer Victoria Stilwell, who has a TV show called "It's Me Or The Dog". She often addresses problems similar to yours, so I'm sure you could find helpful advice there. (08/09/2010)

By WildIrish