Most people love the idea of being able to take their beloved dog out to the dog park to ‘play’ with all the other dogs. In theory this sounds like your dog will have a great time meeting new dogs, playing, sniffing and generally goofing off.

The reality is a little different.

Many mature dogs don’t like to meet strange dogs in a park. This is a human idea. Dogs aren’t technically social creatures when outside of their pack, although it is possible for dogs to make friends with other dogs.

You may also find your dog becomes aggressive toward other dogs, lunging at the other dog or growling or raising his hackles. Even non-aggressive dogs can display these characteristics when they’re confronted with an uncertain situation.

Some dogs also display aggression out of fear, deciding that the best defense is offense, and they’ll show aggressive signs to ward off the other dog.

Socializing Your Dog

The term ‘socializing’ doesn’t mean allowing your dog to play freely with any other dog it meets. It simply means teaching them to behave well when he should come across other dogs. When you visit dog schools, mature dogs aren’t left to romp around together playfully. They are expected to work alongside their handlers while tolerating the presence of other dogs gracefully.

The most effective way to socialize a dog is to begin from a very young age. If you have a puppy, enroll in puppy school immediately. All good puppy schools will have a ‘play time’ as part of training, in which puppies are encouraged to meet each other and get to know other dogs.

However, if you have an adult dog that needs socializing, begin by using the praise and reward method and keep your dog on a leash when in public places. When you notice another dog coming toward you, tell your dog to ‘Say Hello!’ to the other dog. You can begin this at 10 or even 20 yards away from the other dog.

The moment you notice your dog tensing up or you see hackles rising, get your dog’s attention by calling his name or turning at a 90 degree angle sharply. The instant your dog looks at you instead of the other dog, say “good dog!” in a happy, high-pitched tone and give him a small treat or reward.

This distraction can often be enough to stop your dog from perceiving the other dog as a threat. It can also teach your dog that you are the pack leader and you are controlling the situation. Your dog learns that there was no need to fear the other dog, as no confrontation took place, and he also learns to trust that you will be there to take care of the pack even when you’re out together in public.

Discipline

When you’re working to control a dog around other dogs, never yell, scream, scold or hit your dog. These forms of discipline simply don’t work and can often have the opposite effect. A dog who displays aggressive signs around other dogs might be fearful, so hitting him is likely to make him retaliate, snapping or biting in response.

The best form of control in any situation is to teach your dog when it’s time to look away from any distractions and focus on you for positive rewards and treats. You’ll find walk-time much more enjoyable.

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