Post by redredwine5 on Apr 24, 2015 20:47:24 GMT -5
This sounds like a leash reactivity issue more so than aggression. I would get a trainers help soon. Preferably one that can come to you and work on your issues directly where you have them (at home, on walks, potty breaks, etc).
A lot of dogs this age can get insecure and stir up some adolescent drama. I would get a trainers help before it comes more of a habit. The more chances he has to practice this behavior, the harder it will be to change. The gentle leader is a good tool, but be prepared if it makes him even more agitated for a bit because now he can't look at what he wants to. I'd also always use a back up collar, probably a martingale.
If you'd like a couple books to look into, try Feisty Fido or Click to Calm.
In the mean time...carry hot dogs. Lots of them. Practice sits/downs when other dogs approach (or any other behavior he knows and will do for a hot dog). Distraction and avoidance can go a long way to save our sanity until your trainer can help more! This is probably not a problem that is going to go away in a day or two, unfortunately.
Post by redredwine5 on Apr 24, 2015 20:57:37 GMT -5
Also! I just found this I had book marked a while ago - it gives ya some tips and basics to go off of. I adopted a very well adjusted dog at around a year old, only to have him do much the same thing yours is doing a couple months after I adopted him. We're still working on things two years later, but he's manageable in group situations and goes to training class weekly. We're showing in rally/obedience this year
Post by lexxasaurus on Apr 24, 2015 21:26:29 GMT -5
Like others said, it likely comes down to the leash reactivity but see a trainer. Seriously, now. Of course I think all dogs should be trained before bad behavior becomes habit, but a dog this big absolutely needs it sooner rather than later.