Poor Rusty.
Out on walks he couldn’t relax. He was watching for people and their dogs appearing around every corner.
If he spotted one, even in the distance, he tensed up, eyes glued on the approaching threat. As he got nearer, he tried stopping, pulling back, or making himself small. But his owner kept on walking, taking him ever closer.
He tried different things to make the scary people and dogs go away.
He puffed himself up.
He barked and barked.
He lunged and reared up at the end of the lead.
His owner added to his confusion by yelling at him and yanking the lead.
Then, horror of horrors, the off lead approaching dog made a beeline towards Rusty.
He was desperate. So, he had to try the last things in his armoury, snarling and snapping.
Poor Rusty.
Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common. Whether from poor socialisation or a previous bad experience, many dogs are worried about other dogs getting too close.
It can be difficult for owners to understand why their cuddly sofa bunny turns into a whirling dervish monster when it sees other dogs. But this type of behaviour stems commonly from uncertainty and fear.
It is NEVER OK to allow your dog to run up to another dog.
But so many people let it happen.
Keep training,
Carol