Is barking, lunging, growling and spinning normal behaviour for your dog when he or she sees another dog?

Here are some tips to help you and your dog begin the process of make walks enjoyable for both of you again:

First, you are not alone! There are many dogs who are wonderful in the house, but a nightmare when they go out. First, you are not alone! There are many dogs who are wonderful in the house, but a nightmare when they go out.It’s  not your fault your dog behaves as he does, he is only doing what works for him.

• First, you are not alone! There are many dogs who are wonderful in the house, but a nightmare when they go out.
• It’s not your fault your dog behaves as he does, he is only doing what works for him.
• It’s not your dog’s fault either.
• Understand why your dog behaves like this – most dogs react out of fear*.
• Keep your dog safe. Keep other people and dogs safe too. If he has bitten someone or another dog, then teach him to wear a muzzle**
• You can teach old dogs new tricks and you can help him. But it won’t get any better if you don’t do anything
• Stop your dog reinforcing his behaviour. Walks in places where you won’t meet other dogs or go at a different time.
• Not enjoying your walks? Then do something else. Play active games in your garden such as find it, fetch; or create an agility course – the only limitation is your imagination!
• More than one dog? Walk them separately. You will have better control over one dog than two.
• Get your dog a comfortable, well-fitting harness. Your dog’s neck is delicate and easily damaged. Never, ever use aversive tools or techniques these will make the problem worse. These include choke chains, slip leads, prong collar and, electric shock collars.

*    Reactive dogs are generally scared – they are not aggressive, nasty or vicious which people may have called them. However, medical issues can cause a dog to react aggressively so please get your dog checked by your vet.

** You must teach your dog to wear a muzzle.