You are here:
- Home
- Animals/Pets
- Dogs
- Canine Behavior
- Friendly to Some Dogs not Others
Canine Behavior/Friendly to Some Dogs not Others
Advertisement
Question
My lab mix is very friendly and sociable to some of the neighborhood dogs when we are out walking, but not to others. Most are met with a wagging tail and sniffing while others get an extreme reaction of snarls and aggression. Why is this and how can I predict how she will react upon meeting a new dog?
You really can't. Dogs pick their own friends. One of the reasons this happens is that one or the other of the dogs may be sending a negative vibe, and neither dog can get away, due to being on leash. So, they do the only thing dogs know how to do - they tell the other dog to back off. One way to avoid this situation is to not allow your dog to meet and greet other dogs at close quarters while on a taut leash. Many dogs that react the way yours does are fine with other dogs when they are off leash, or if the leashes are dragging, rather than tight. Read "Feisty Fido" or "Scaredy Dog" and you may get more insight into this behavior.
- Add to this Answer
- Ask a Question
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Wow - your timeliness blew me away. Thanks for your prompt response. I was not expecting that. Also the clarity and knowledgeability of the answer put me completely at ease. I really appreciate the service you all provide for all of us mom's and dad's of dogs out here! | ||
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Anne Springer, B.S., Dip., CAPCT
Expertise
I am happy to answer questions about: dog behavior and training, therapy dogs, training disabled dogs, training recently rescued dogs, and managing off leash play groups.
Experience
Professionally involved in teaching private and group lessons, and doing behavior consultations. American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Therapy Dogs, Inc. Tester/Observer. Special interest in pet/elder issues, and in therapy dogs.
Organizations
Truly Dog Friendly
Association of Pet Dog Trainers
International Positive Dog Training Association
Therapy Dogs, Inc.
Publications
Gloucester Times
Cape Ann Beacon
Ipswich Chronicle
Beverly Citizen
Salem News
Examiner.com
Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Cum Laude. Diploma in Dog Obedience Instruction, Graduate of NY School of Dog Grooming, Certified Advanced Pet Care Technician - American Boarding Kennels Assn., Certified Pet First Aid & CPR, American Red Cross
Awards and Honors
2002 Caregiver Award from the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, for Pawsitive Connections Program (pet/elder issues)
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.