On and Off leash

[JR0579]

Roy, the almost 8-month old devil ... ooops I mean GSD does something that is very strange and I just can't seem to find a way to rectify it.

If he is on the leash and meets another dog, whether walking down the street or at the dog park, he lunges, barks and the hair on the his back stands up. With the same dog, not a particular one but any dog, if Roy is off leash he is very friendly and playful.

It's bothering me because the way he barks and lunges gives the impression that he is aggressive and vicious which he isn't.

How can I stop him from lunging and barking at other dogs?

Thanks

[gaddylovesdogs]

He probably feels threatened when he's on leash...more vulnerable.

[JR0579]

Originally Posted by gaddylovesdogs

He probably feels threatened when he's on leash...more vulnerable.

So how do I stop it ? I tried treats to get his attention and also garbbing him by the scruff saying "NO" ... neither worked

[qwkslvr]

My dog does the same thing. I am trying to teach him to "leave it" when other dogs walk by and focus on me. It is kinda tough when other peoples dogs are not on leash and coming up to you. Also i was told in class to try to keep leash loose and not tighten it up because it makes the dogs think that there is something to be concerned over and they feel your nervousness down thru the leash. That has helped a bit too. Good Luck !

[sheps4me]

Originally Posted by JoyfulRoy

So how do I stop it ? I tried treats to get his attention and also garbbing him by the scruff saying "NO" ... neither worked

Treats are a good place to start. I don't think I would scruff him -- it might just get him even more worked up.
This is really common behavior and takes a bit of work to get it under control. I don't let my dogs meet strange dogs on walks and actually train them to ignore other dogs. This means crossing the street to avoid other dogs and using strong motivators to keep their focus on me.
Is there something that Roy really loves - whether it's a particular kind of food or a toy? Work very hard to get his attention on you before he focuses on the other dog. It's a matter of timing.

[JR0579]

Oh ... he loves treats but not difference. One time I literally had the treat almost in his mouth but it made no difference. Crossing the street or changing direction isn't much of an option because he sees / smells the other dog way before I know what is happening ... I wear glasses

Should I always go out loaded with treats ?

[DanL]

We've been working on this issue w/ Gunnar. The key is redirection- take his focus off the other dog and put it on you. How you do that is your choice- treats, toys, etc. It takes some time so be patient.

[sheps4me]

Originally Posted by JoyfulRoy

Oh ... he loves treats but not difference. One time I literally had the treat almost in his mouth but it made no difference. Crossing the street or changing direction isn't much of an option because he sees / smells the other dog way before I know what is happening ... I wear glasses

Should I always go out loaded with treats ?

Yes, if that motivates him more than a toy. Does he go crazy over a particular ball, tug or squeaky toy? You could buy a new toy that you only take out on walks, which might hold more appeal for him. The main idea is to find something that causes him to focus on you and use that item before he pays attention to the other dog.
If food is more motivating, I would use something really appetizing like pieces of hot dog or cooked chicken. It's not going to be a quick fix; this is a process that can take quite a while to produce results but it's worth it.

[JR0579]

Thanks 4 all the help ...

I have another post in the "General chat" about Roy barking at my wife and I
Please have a look. Your input would be greatly appreciated

Thanks again

[PFC1]

I would be careful about just popping a treat in front of his face when he starts to bark and growl. He might feel rewarded for this behavior, and keep it up. I would see if you can get him to do something constructive first, like sitting, and then give the treat.