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troublesome boxer

19 11:35:56

Question
Hi I have a three yr old boxer whom is generally well behave, only when out walking on the lead she goes crazy when other dogs re in sight and she cannot play, usually resulting in a battle of strength between her and I and a very disturbing display of aggression. Off the lead she is great, friendly and playful with other dogs. What am i doing wrong?

Answer
I would suggest a head collar and better leadership.  The leading brands are Promise,  Haltie, and Gentle Leader.  They have a strap going around the dogs nose looking something like a muzzle.  They work by pulling the dogs head around.  No other way gives you such great control with so little force.  The prong collar is now a
dangerous relic of value only for its macho looks.  Do not consider using one
without hands on instruction from somebody with plenty of experience with them.

The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts.  Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/  For more on being top dog, see http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm

Also as you approach another dog, start talking to yours and  get his attention on you.