As you probably know, Darwin hasn't got used to other dogs existing on this planet yet. Not really aggressive, but certainly territorial. We're making a lot of progress, but he still hackles at 50% of the dogs we meet on walks.
But our next-door neighbour has a female dog (spayed, and Darwin is neutered) that Darwin has a crush on. Whenever she walks past, he whines and scratches at the door. When we go out, he looks around for her, and never barks. And a couple of times she's come running up to him before I could do anything (she's not leashed, just like every other dog in the country, minus Darwin) and they seem to play together.
Is there any benefit in allowing them to associate from time to time (Darwin remaining leashed, of course)? Would it encourage him to accept other dogs? Or would it somehow harm the process of learning to ignore other dogs?
Cameron Feathers Webboard User Reg: 03-11-2008
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In your training with Darwin, you are trying to get him to look to you for structure, guidance, etc. He doesn't have that down yet, so, I wonder if allowing the play to happen will add confusion? I mean, your neighbors' dog is not a part of your pack, and you want to teach him that he looks to you for what to do around strange dogs. If you allow him to play with a dog from another pack, he will bond that other dog, thus creating a new pack. Ultimately, you want him to learn that no strange dog is going to present anything that you (as supreme overlord or whatever) can't handle. That way, he relaxes in your leadership and allows you to deal with the strange dog. It's not so much ignoring the dog as it is learning that you will protect him if the need is there. Any other thoughts on this?
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When (if ever) to associate with other dogs?
#190587 - 04/15/2008 03:46 PM 
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