[chickeneye1]

Every time we go out on walks and we come across another dog, Buddy gets really, really excited. The hairs on his back go up right away and he pulls like a machine! He doesn't bark or anything, and I'm think he just wants to say hello, but I just need someone to tell me if this is aggressive behaviour.
It gets really embarassing sometimes...
He is 1 year and 4 months old right now. Is it just because he's in that 'period'?

A massive thanks for any help!!

 

[towtrip]

I'm assuming that he does this only on leash and you have no reason to believe that he's dog aggressive in any other situation, right?

It doesn't sound like he's aggressive ... yet. Depending on how you handle this, he can become aggressive due to frustration and reinforced bad habits (albeit unintentional reinforcement).

What it does sound like is a dog that has had very little training, particularly in the area of leash skills. You need to get him into some classes and work on his skills ... preferably in a positive manner. I always advocate clicker classes because I believe it's harder to make mistakes with clickers and it's very effective.

You need loose leash walking skills and (at a minimum) a good "sit," "watch," and "leave it." I also teach my dogs "ignore it" for walking past yards with other dogs, squirrels, rabbits or cats.

Your dog needs to be able to sit on command and wait for an appropriate introduction and for you to decide if he can approach another dog. Whether or not he can meet another dog will depend on his social skills (can he appropriately interact with other dogs) and the social skills of other dog (some simply don't want other dogs in their space).

 

[chickeneye1]

Thanks Susan. I guess I have a lot of work to do...

 

[towtrip]

I think you'll find the work very rewarding. I know I walk a little taller when I'm out with the Drama Queen and someone comments on how well-behaved she is. Of course, they don't see her antics at home! LOL

 

[chickeneye1]