I went to the shore with my family and both dogs. We trained every morning and then walked, and walked again every evening mostly to avoid the heat. I had great reaction to both dogs people came up an asked to pet the dogs, my little female AS was in heaven. She would sit all nice but her little body would shake and her tail would be thumping the ground as folks gave her affection. Many were surprised to learn that she was a pit bull, but most all knew that my male was an APBT. I only had one bad experience. I had my female and we were done our OB and on our walk. We were walking down the side walk when this very large woman and her friend approached us. Lilly started to wag her tail but the large woamn just stared at her, the tail went straight, the head skin krinkled, the ears went up on alert and the hair on her back became raised, as the woman got closer she said, "If the f*ckin pit comes any where near me I will kill it". I immediately commanded her to a tight heel and we passed very quickly. I have never seen her respond that way to a person. Experts what was this, I can't say I am happy about it..........

I would say, judging by what you said; your pup was intimidated by Miss "keep ur pit away or I'll kill it".

Dogs can sense such things.. (sounds silly but is true)...


John

I'd say the direct stare and body language by the woman challenged your girl. You may have sensed it too and tightened up on the leash, creating further tension that she sensed. You can teach her a command to break the staring contest by having her focus her eyes on you. I usually start with a prey object (and reward them when they look away to you) and then I introduce stronger distractions (like real people staring). For this, it is so important you mark with praise the INSTANT she looks away and at you so she really understands what the command is that she should perform. Practice a lot and she will get it. I wish you the best.
Michelle

Thanks folks. I am assuming then, that this is not an unexpected behavior. I was concerned as she is a pit and thought it was a behavior that should not be seen in this breed. Both my dogs are very good with people and enjoy being around them. As soon as I gave her the "get in" command she refocused on me and came to the tight heel. I am also sure that she sensed my discomfort so I will work on that as well. I understand not all people like dogs and a lot of people don't like my chosen breed, I guess I was caught up in the positive energy of the whole experience...my mistake!!!