I have a spayed 14 month old GSD who seems to be aggressive towards other dogs. She was raised with other siblings, but probably didn't have enough contact with other dogs between 5 and 9 months of her life. I have gone through a Petsmart training class and she seemed great during class. She barked at first, but then made friends and was able to be calm in the presence of 4 other dogs. Whenever she sees another strange dog, she barks and lunges, tail high, very excited. I'm able to calm her down, have her sit and be quiet about 99% of the time. What's the best way to approach her socialization? I'd like to be able to meet responsible dog owners who know their dogs and would let me try and have our dogs meet. I don't think Petsmart is the best way - people are not willing to meet a barking GSD and they usually don't know enough about dogs anyway. Any suggestions?
Magda
I noticed that you are fairly new to the forum.
Glad you joines us.
Ig you look at the bottom of this post in the right corner, chick on "GO" and you will find several discusions on this exact subject.
I have read those articles. I think I will try a dog club. I started wondering whether I should try a GSD club or maybe a different breed, like a lab. Kayla seems to like labs. Should I stick with my own breed?
Sorry Magda, the socializing period is over for your dog. You need to get control of your dog aggressive dog. Anticipate the potential for this behavior and teach the dog under no uncertain terms that its aggressive behavior is unacceptable with a correction from you.
Nothing but stopping the behavior dead in its tracks will be helpful. No praise conditioning or other dog exposure will work. Do not be pacified by the fact your dog will, at times, tolerate other dogs. This does not mean your dog has a small problem and you can waffle on the conditioning. Find a good trainer in your area and good luck.
A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down. - Robert Benchley
In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semi-human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog. - Edward Hoagland
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