poodle does not play well with others

Question
QUESTION: Our 4 yr old standard (neutered male) is a well behaved dog but just doesn't play well with other dogs.  If introduced on their turf or his, he growls and attacks, no matter how many times he has met the other dog.  He has been kicked out of doggie day care. I really want him to be more social so we can take him with us when we visit family members who have dogs.  He seems insecure and angry. What do we do?

ANSWER: Hello Karen,
The first thing I would try would be Obedience classes for your boy.  They would give him some confidence and will help with socalization.  Try to get him into a group class where he can be around other dogs, but where its a controlled setting.  Talk to the instructor first and let him/her know that your dog has issues with other dogs and that you want him to be ok around other dogs.  
What you need to do is to make him submit to other dogs and not try to be dominate over them, but this can't be done by yourselves.  You need a professional to help you and your dog get this worked out.  You might ask your Instructor if he/she can help you with this, or find out if they can recommend a Dog Behavorist that can help you with this.  

If you have ever watched the Dog Whisperer on National Geographic channel, with Ceasar Mulan (sp?) he deals with dogs that have dog aggression in the same way as I mentioned above.  You can visit his website by going to your search engine and typing in "The Dog Whisperer".  He gives tips on how to work with dogs with minor problems such as your boy.  As I said before though, this is not a problem that you should handle alone.  You need someone that can evaluate you and your dog in your home and can help you one-on-one.  

I hope this has helped you some.  If you have other questions, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: How do I find a good trainer?  There are many in the area but I need to find one that is qualified with his problem. (central PA - zip 17402)

I love to watch the Dog Whisperer.  I take my boy for walks and over all he is well behaved.  He just needs to be socialized.

Thank you for your help!

Answer
Hello Again Karen,
I would try the Phone Book first to see what and who they have listed.  Next, call your local Vet office and see if they have anyone they can recommend.  
You can also type in Dog Trainers in PA in your search engine to see what it pulls up for you.  
Be sure to call and talk with the trainer first to let them know about your dog and what problems he has.  You might also ask about the trainers background and expirence.  


Thanks for your patience
Talk to you later,
Kim