Verna,
Is there a dog trainer or behaviorist anywhere in your area that you can contact for help? It is much easier to have someone there in person to help you and see your dog in action to determine the best approach to take. Finding a "quality" trainer/behaviorist is key.
Take your dog for regular walks but don't force her to get too close to other dogs yet, just walk by them at a comfortable distance for her. Never coddle her when she is making a fuss around other dogs as that will encourage the behavior to continue. If you are passing another dog while walking and she acts up, keep walking, say Ahh! or Leave it. and keep moving. If she obeys and leaves it, praise her!! Keep the walks positive and upbeat. Bring along her favorite toy or treats. You want to gradually make her more comfortable around other dogs and one of the best ways is exposing her to them, but again, only at a distance where she doesn't react then gradually, and very gradually do you get closer. Never do head on meetings with other dogs. Dogs do best while in motion and keep the pace normal. If you must pass a dog coming towards you, walk in an arc around that dog, not face to face. Make sure you stay calm at all times no matter what she is doing. You are in control of the walk, not her. Keep it positive, upbeat and she will know that you are the leader which will eventually help to make her more confident. This will take time and patience on your part. Timing is everything. The second she looks away from the dog and back at you, praise! Use your voice to get the message across. When she is doing what you want, use your happy upbeat voice to praise her, when she is acting up, say LEAVE IT in a more serious voice and mean it. Teaching the Leave it command is very valuable for all situations. This is only one suggestion of many out there. Again, finding someone locally to help you would be great so they can see her in person and work with you one on one. Good luck.
Joanna
