Why is my dog aggressive to other dogs on walks?

There are a variety of specific reasons your dog may act aggressive to other canines while you're out on a walk. The most common reasons include your dog being defensive and/or scared, as well as being protective of its territory or owner. Dogs that are not well socialized may also have poor communication skills.

How do I stop my dog from attacking other dogs on walks?

Block Their View Of The Other Dog- If your dog cannot see the other dog, they are likely to calm down. If it is not possible to move your dog completely out of sight, simply stand in front of your dog's face to block their view. This may also calm them as they realise there is no need to become aggressive.

Why is my dog so aggressive on walks?

In some cases, the dog has poor social communication skills and does not read the social signals of people and/or dogs appropriately. Often, continued encounters increase the dog's reactivity and vigilance on walks.

Why is my dog aggressive towards other dogs on leash?

Dogs who may normally be friendly with other dogs can sometimes become reactive and aggressive when attached to a leash. This behavioral trait, known as leash aggression or leash reactivity, is most frequently triggered by fear or frustration, although a high prey drive can lead to aggression when leashed as well.

Why does my dog go crazy at other dogs on walks?

Most dogs that bark and lunge at other dogs are really stressed out by other dogs. They might be scared, aggressive, or overly excited. Seeing another dog without being able to escape, attack, or go say hi is generally “upsetting,” so the dog barks and lunges.

Stop Your Dog's Reactive Behavior On-Leash

Why does my dog freak out when he sees other dogs?

1. Poor socialization and learned behavior. One of the most common causes of regular reactivity is poor socialization. Socialization is the process of introducing young puppies to other dogs and people so they know how to interact safely with others.

Why is my dog so reactive to other dogs?

Reactive dogs are often motivated out of excitement (high-arousal), which can lead to frustration. Many times humans have unintentionally created this behavior because dogs were never taught how to be appropriately social around other dogs in an appropriate manner.

How do I stop my dog lunging at other dogs on the lead?

Hold your dog on a loose leash; a tight leash can heighten reactivity. Treat your dog when he walks next to you; if he pulls on the leash or crosses in front of you, stop walking. Use a treat to lure him back to your side. Walk toward the other dog at an angle or perpendicular to the other dog, rather than head on.

Can aggression be trained out of a dog?

Is training an aggressive dog possible? Yes. Aggression in dogs, whether it be toward a dog's owner or other dogs, is a serious behavior that should be adjusted with the help of a professional dog trainer.

How do I make my dog less reactive to other dogs?

How do I keep my dog from going crazy on walks?

How do I fix my dogs defensive aggression?

It's best to address the fear in Anxiety and Avoidance (above) by moving away from the perceived threat or lessening its intensity. For a dog not used to handling, for example, shorter sessions are best. For a dog who actively avoids other dogs or strangers, allowing that space is wise.

Why is my dog aggressive on leash but not off leash?

We've established that a dog barking and lunging on-leash at another dog is most likely doing so because it is afraid of the other dog and wants it to go away (i.e., more distance). But when a dog is on-leash what option is taken away from him? He can't run or move away; he's tethered to the human.

Can a reactive dog be cured?

Can my adult reactive dog be cured? Dogs of any age can start training to improve their reactivity. You do need to keep in mind that the longer a behavior has been ingrained, the longer it will take to retrain the dog.

How do you calm an anxious dog on walks?

Choose a route that avoids their triggers as much as possible, then walk the same route every time. Keep walks brief at first. Until your dog feels more comfortable, don't overstress him. Treats are a great distraction, so buy some small treats for positive reinforcement.

How do I get my dog to behave on walks?

Continue to correct his behavior by stopping in your tracks and ignoring him. Begin walking again with a short and loose leash once your dog's behavior has improved. Take your dog on walks often to practice behavior while walking. Reward your dog when he stops after being corrected and to acknowledge his good behavior.

Should I drag my dog on a walk?

Pulling and dragging a pup can not only injure their necks and dislocate knees and elbows that are still rubbery (and with growth plates still not closed), but also give them a highly negative, unhappy association with you, the leash, and going on walks. Dragging and using force can only make matters worse!

Should you walk an anxious dog?

Walk both animals at a distance at first until your dog becomes more comfortable, and keep them on a long leash so they don't feel trapped. Stay calm and upbeat yourself – fussing over an anxious dog can convince them there's something to worry about.

What are the first signs of stress in a dog?

Is it OK for my dog to walk in front of me?

Walk in Front of Your Dog

Walking in front of your dog allows you to be seen as the pack leader. Conversely, if your dog controls you on the walk, he's the pack leader. You should be the first one out the door and the first one in. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk.

How do you train an aggressive dog on a leash?

Turn to Treats to Distract. In the meantime, start decreasing your dog's frustration when he's on leash and spies another dog by removing the tension from your leash. To do that, you're going to teach your dog that when he sees another dog, he'll be rewarded for looking at you.

Should you muzzle a reactive dog?

The use of a muzzle has been an important tool in behavior modification if a dog is reactive. The muzzle allows you to be safe as you work around other dogs, or around people. Work with an experienced trainer, of course.