Expert: Shelley Davis - 7/12/2006

Question
Hi Shelley!  I have two Springer spaniels from rescues.  I've had one (Casey) since Oct., 2004 who is unfortunately going back into rescue due to a fear biting problem.  The other (Barklay) who I rescued almost a year ago is staying.  However, I have concerns over his socialization with other dogs.  Casey & Barklay get along great!  But since Casey is not staying, I want to get Barklay to get used to other dogs so I can take him to dog runs and parks.  (I never did this whenever I first got him)  Barklay is 1 ½ years.  Is it too late to work on his socialization skills?  And how might I best do this?  Barklay is an easy going dog.  He likes people.  Made a new friend yesterday when I took him to the pet store as well as a neighbor but when a strange dog gets close, Barklay bares his teeth.  (This is when he is on leash; I don’t know how he’d be off leash)  Is there any training I can do myself or would it be best to enroll him in a class?  

Answer
Hi Pamela,

Thank you for writing to me about your Springer Spaniels.

I am most concerned about Casey and I implore you to reconsider sending him back into rescue.  You have had him close to two years and although you haven't gone into any details about his issues, I can tell almost certainly that there is confusion in your household as to who the pack leader is and what each dog's place in the pecking order is.

Without more information about Casey's fear biting, I am unable to offer any suggestions, other than to urge you to hire a behavorist who specializes in aggression using a postive reinforcement approach. Dogs take their cues from the pack leader and there are very few issues that cannot be corrected with professional guidance and patience.  It is a shame for Casey because he may never find another home that loves him enough to help him change his response to certain stimuli.   Have you watched the Dog Whisperer on National Geographic TV?  It would be extremely helpful for dealing with both dogs if you could find the time to do so.

Barklay may be fine off leash.  Many dogs are leash aggressive but behave perfectly within a pack setting.  Sometimes a dog will feel the tension that the owner is experiencing and react.  Do you feel apprehensive when another dog approaches?  Does your arm stiffen in anticipation of trouble?  Do you walk Barklay with confidence or apprehension?  Your dog can sense everything that you are feeling as your emotions travel down your arm and through the leash.  You truly need to work with a trainer/behavorist who can help you resolve issues with BOTH dogs.

I also suggest that you start reading and watching tapes that deal with dog aggression, and basic training/socialization.  You will be amazed at how learning just a few things about dog behavior can go a very long way.

Best,
Shelley Davis
www.bednbiscuit.com