70 mon Male Socialization

Question
I recently adopted a 7 month old, un fixed, male boxer.  He is adorable,
except he came to us with no training.  House breaking and training for the
most part is  going fine.  When we go to the dog park he is great with other
dogs.  The only thing that worries me, is that when we walk the pup and he
sees other dogs he runs up to them and tries to play.  He is totally not
aggressive, just very intimidating and other owners get worried.  What is the
most effective way to train the dog not to run up and jump at other dogs?


Answer
Training usually begins earlier as you know, but couldn't help because of his previous owner/breeder.

You need to leash train him first.

Keep him leashed, walking to your right, if you are tight-handed.

Allow him to walk ahead, but use your commands to "stop" sit" and praise him with treats.

When you want him to "stop" say "stop" and pull the leash and physically make him stand still. When you want him to "sit" then say "sit" and physically push his butt down into a sitting position. Use treats each command as he is learning and verbally praise him.

Once leash trained, then introduce him to other dogs while on his leash.

Do not allow any dog to be unleashed- ever. This is dangerous for the dog and other dogs, and people. Always keep your dog leashed regardless of his training and of his age.

If in a dog park where it is fenced closed-off, then he can be off his leash in it, but you must be sure he is socialized well and comes to your commands.

You have to crawl before you can walk.

Join Boxersworld.com for free and go into the forum. They are all Boxer owners just like you, and most very, extremely knowledgeable.