2.5 year female boxer with dog aggression issues

Question
We adopted a 2 year old boxer from a rescue group about 6 months ago.  We were told that she'd been temperment tested and that she got along with most other dogs.  Well, as it turns out, after trying her in doggy daycare, and just generally exposing her to other dogs on walks/obedience class, she's definitely got issues with other dogs.  It seems like she's ok with dogs that she's been around repeatedly.  Unfamiliar dogs, however, get her very riled up to the point where she sometimes lunges and growls.  Is there something we can do to minimize these issues?  Do we just accept that she shouldn't be around other dogs, or would that make it worse?  She's great with people, although a bit fearful of strangers at first. She's been excellent in obedience class, but is a bit stubborn to listen when we're at home. She does exibit some domineering qualities, such as licking you to death in order to get your attention. She's also very protective of the yard and the house, barking when she sees the neighbors or if someone comes to the door.  Do you think she's an accident waiting to happen?  We don't have children now, but hope to in a year or so.

Answer
Hi Steph,

Congratulations on your new girl!  

The good news is, that yes, sometimes I do suggest that a dog aggressive dog practice avoidance, however, if your girl gets along with 'some' but  not 'all' you've got a fighting chance.

The difference between home and class is that at home, there are more distractions.  Have you explained to the trainer that she's a bit bull-headed at home?  He/she should tell you that there is no stubborn.  ;)  She does it because you say so, if you have to use a correction, use a correction.  Don't let her not do something...she wins which means you lose.  You are the leader!

Start practicing the NILF method of training.  It's great!  Google 'Nothing in Life is Free' and you'll come up with sites that explain it.  In a nutshell, she doesn't get attention, food, water or exercise until she does something for you first (sit, down, shake, speak).  This will help put you in a leadership roll as well.

If she licks you, all attention stops.  Stand up (if you're sitting) and ignore her.  Don't let her be the boss of you...things happen on your terms, not hers.

I'm assuming you meet unfamiliar dogs on walks?  One thing you can do is to put her in a sit when you see another dog.  (Cross the road as well if you need to).  Get her attention focused on you (with a treat).  As the dog nears, keep her in a sit and keep her focused.  If she behaves as the dog passes, treat.  I would suggest starting out on the other side of the road while you're practicing the technique.  The better she gets, the closer you can get to the other dogs.

Remember to keep yourself calm.  People forget this and dogs sense tension.  Keep your body relaxed, stand up straight and walk with a purpose.  If you see another dog approaching, don't tense up.  Remain calm, cross the road, put her in a sit and get her attention.  Eventually she'll start to realize that other dogs mean goodies.  :)

If you're concerned about her being an 'accident'...make an appointment with a behaviorist.  Not an obedience trainer.  A behaviorist can assess her and tell you if she has true problems or if she's just a bit dominant.  They will also be able to give you training advice, specific to her behavioral issues, and put your mind at ease about whether or not she'll be good with children.