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My dog doesn't like other dogs - How you can help him

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It's a common challenge that many dog owners experience: Their own dog doesn't like other dogs. He may react aggressively, fearfully or avoid contact altogether. This can make walks stressful and raise the question: "How can I help my dog get along better with other dogs?" This article will help you to better understand your dog's behavior and show you different approaches and exercises to help him.

Why doesn't my dog like other dogs?

Before you take the first steps towards a solution, it is important to understand the reasons for your dog's behavior. There are many reasons why a dog might react negatively to other dogs. Here are some of the most common:

Lack of socialization

Dogs that have not been adequately socialized during their puppyhood often have difficulty interacting with other dogs. If your dog has not had the opportunity to have positive experiences with other dogs during this critical period (between 3 and 14 weeks of age), they may react to the unknown with fear or aggression.

Traumatic experiences

Your dog may have had a bad experience with another dog, which now makes him wary or even aggressive towards other dogs. An attack or even a threat can leave deep-seated fears.

Genetic predisposition

Some dog breeds are naturally less social or more territorial than others. This doesn't mean they can never get along with other dogs, but it may take more work and patience.

Insecurity and fear

Fear is one of the most common causes of aggression. Dogs that are insecure can often react defensively to protect themselves. These dogs often need extra guidance and support from their human to become more confident.

Dominance behavior

Some dogs show dominant behavior towards others, which can lead to conflict. Again, this is often due to insecurity and not genuine aggression.

The first steps: Understanding your dog

Before you actively work on socializing your dog, it is crucial to observe his behaviour closely. When does he react negatively to other dogs? Is it in certain situations, such as on the lead, or with certain dogs, such as males or puppies?

Observe the body language

Dogs communicate a lot through their body language. Look out for the following signs that your dog is uncomfortable:

  • Stiff posture: a dog preparing for conflict will often become stiff and rigid.
  • Yawning or licking the lips: These are often appeasement signals that indicate stress.
  • Ears laid back: A sign of insecurity or anxiety.
  • Fixating or staring: A sign that the dog is concentrating on a potential threat.

These signs help you to recognize early on when your dog is feeling uncomfortable so that you can intervene before the situation escalates.

Step by step: How to help your dog

Now that you have a better understanding of the possible causes and your dog's body language, you can start to actively work on his reaction to other dogs. Patience and consistency are the keys to success.

Create distance

The first step is to give your dog enough space. If you notice that he reacts negatively to another dog, increase the distance. Don't force him into a situation that overwhelms him. The more relaxed he feels, the better he will learn to deal with other dogs.

Desensitization and counter-conditioning

These two techniques help to change your dog's negative associations with other dogs.

  • Desensitization: Start by placing your dog at a sufficient distance from other dogs so that he can see them but does not yet react negatively. Over time, slowly reduce the distance while keeping an eye on his stress levels.
  • Counter-conditioning: Every time your dog sees another dog, reward him with a treat or a game. This helps him to make a positive association between seeing another dog and something good.

Train your dog to walk on a lead

Many dogs react particularly aggressively to other dogs on the lead. This may be due to the restriction of the lead, which gives them the feeling that they cannot escape. Therefore, train your dog to walk on a lead so that it feels safer on the lead.

  • Reward calm behavior: Reward your dog for walking calmly on the lead, especially around other dogs.
  • Avoid pulling on the lead: If you pull the leash tight, you are signaling to your dog that there is something dangerous ahead. Keep the lead slack and try to stay calm.

Facilitate positive encounters

Try to give your dog positive experiences with well-socialized dogs. These can be controlled encounters in a calm environment where he can learn that other dogs are not a threat.

  • Choose the right dog: A calm, composed dog can help your dog feel more secure. Avoid boisterous or dominant dogs at first.
  • Build up encounters slowly: Start with short encounters, perhaps just a walk together at a distance. Over time, you can bring the dogs closer together.

Introduce relaxation techniques

Sometimes it is helpful to teach your dog techniques that help him to relax in stressful situations. These can be simple signals such as "sit" or "look at me", which you use to draw his attention away from the other dog.

  • "Look at me" command: Train your dog to look at you when you give this command. This draws his attention away from the other dog and gives him a clear direction.
  • Breathing techniques: Although it may sound strange, you can teach your dog to relax by breathing slowly and calmly. This can be achieved through calm, relaxed exercises in stress-free situations.

When professional help is needed

Sometimes these techniques are not enough, especially if your dog is extremely anxious or aggressive towards other dogs. In these cases, it can be helpful to seek professional help. An experienced dog trainer or behavior consultant can help you develop a customized training plan for your dog.

What a dog trainer can do

  • Behavior analysis: A trainer can analyze your dog's behavior in detail and recommend the best approaches for the specific situation.
  • Training in controlled environments: A good trainer often has access to dogs that they can use for training situations. This helps your dog to learn in a controlled environment.
  • Long-term support: Behavior training takes time, and a trainer can provide support and guidance for weeks or months.

Patience and consistency lead to success

If your dog doesn't like other dogs, this can be frustrating, but with patience, consistency and the right techniques, you can help him to relax and respond more positively to his peers. Remember that every dog is individual and there is no quick fix. However, with small, steady progress, you will see your dog's behavior slowly improve.

Help him by supporting him, giving him security and giving him the time he needs.


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