Expert: Angela Donald - 2/16/2010

Question
Dear Angela,
I am hoping you can help me with my 18 months old boxer.
He has recently started to be highly reactive to other males (mostly the ones that are not neutered) at the dogs park.
Technically, according to the park rules, 'non-fixed' males aren't allowed in, but a lot of dog owners don't really care, and neither did my dog until recently. He will start by following those dogs almost obsessively, try to mount them and really quickly jump on them to pin them down.
Also, if there is any kind of fight at the park, even if it has nothing to do with him, he will run and get involved. It's almost as if he is putting on on show by growling but he has never bitten. I don't really give him the option... I just grab him from behind and pull him away from the 'scene' and make lay on his side until I release him.
He otherwise is a very social and affectionate dog. He is good with strangers, with children and he plays really well with all sorts of dogs. Unfortunately, the attacks have now become part of his routine and I will not allow it. I just don't know what to do other than put him into submission and let him play again.
Thanking you in advance for your time.
Best,
Audrey

Answer
Hi Audrey,

I would guess that your male isn't the one starting the problems if he is neutered. If he isn't neutered then you are fighting a loosing battle at the park.Whenever he engages the fights he's not in this is normal pack mentality. Survival of the fittest so to speak.  I really don't like dog parks for the simple reason you have so many people frequenting these places who have no control over their dogs and most don't care. They can turn a good dog bad fast. You are doing right by your technique but you might try not going to the dog parks and allow him to play with dogs you know like friends and family pets or you could try not allowing him off leash at the park and correct him the moment before you think he is going to react to another dog. This will take much practice on your part and will not be an overnight fix. If you decide to continue to go to the parks and try this on leash method and you can't seem to make any progress with him then the best thing is to stop going there. One other thing most boxer owners are unaware of is since the boxer is a docked breed they will have a harder time communicating with other dogs as the tail is a part of the body language of all canines. This is one reason you see the wiggle butt or kidney beaning in the boxers, this gesture is their way of communicating friendly motives or excitement. Hope this information will help you and I thank you for your question.

Angela Donald
Canine Behavior Consultant
http://www.hitowerboxers.com