Rude Dogs - Non-Tolerance

[thainsworth]

Hi Mike,

I quite frequently come across nice dogs who have turned aggressive because other rude dogs will come running up and ram them, bite them or scrap with them. Soon these nice dogs typically become extra submissive until it happens again and they realize that does not work for them so they become aggressive.

My dog in particular used to be extremely submissive to all dogs. After several run-ins he became more aggressive. Now he doesn't even tolerate a dog coming up to him quickly. He will quickly try to tune that dog in with a display of aggression, barking, chasing and snapping close to the face. All of which he isn't really trying to hurt the other dog but it looks bad and people who don't deal with dogs think it is the worst fight ever.

We stopped going to busy parks so I could at least spot other dogs and decide if we should greet them. I exercise him in calm low distraction areas usually with no dogs present. He is great with well mannered dogs. I can't really blame him for wanting to tell off other rude dogs. I see it as people coming running up to me and trying to fight me all the time. Pretty quick I would make a stand for myself too.

Off-leash parks were started with good intentions but I see way too many bad behavioral problems come out of there. I tell clients to stay away from busy parks and preferably get together with other dogs their dog knows and plays well with.

So my question is, what is the best way to deal with that type of behavior? Can you teach a dog to ignore rude dogs?

[Mike D'Abruzzo]

I agree with you 100% on this. I am not a big fan of dog parks for that very reason. I much prefer play dates with dogs that you know your dog gets along with. Adult dogs by nature really do not have any desire to be social butterflies anyway.

The best way within reason is to deal with the unexpected rude dog with obedience (calling your dog away with a "come" or "leave it") If it is impossible because of the other dog's continued engagement I have no problem intervening with a spray shield blast if the other dog's owner doesnt call him/her off. If it is done to protect your dog or the other dog from being bit (even in defense) it is called for and it is harmless.

Best bet is to manage the situation by avoiding it in my opinion.