Q&A: dog section-I have a question about my DDB?
Question by Angelina C: dog section-I have a question about my DDB?
Hi all, I have a 11 month old douge de bordeaux. He is a great dog, he LOVES people more then anything, very well socialized in that area. BUT he is not socialed well with dogs. Ever sence he was younger I tried to socialize him with other dogs, and he was great, loved to play and was sweet twords them. But when he turned about 8 months or so, he is aggresive twords dogs. Dogs he does not know that is. If he has known the dog he does good with them, but not new ones. Male female it doesnt matter. Now I am scared to have him around other dogs, and its sad cause I love taking him to places, and want to do doggy play dates, but he is such a butt head!! lol. what should I do? do they have like dog socialization classes? But can you even take a dog that is semi aggresive tword other dogs to something like tha? its kinda embarrising. He does fine until they start smelling each other, he doesnt freak out if he sees a dog like a few feet away, its just when they are very close. Anywho, any advice would be great!! Thanks a bunch!! also here is some pics of him!!
http://img0.uploadhouse.com/fileuploads/4230/4230530c89d580173370a8e683eb4d1741ebbd1.jpg
http://img2.uploadhouse.com/fileuploads/4230/42305323fbb57d04c7f4c2ca500ac1f8423be43.jpg
http://img1.uploadhouse.com/fileuploads/4230/423054192b3116aec121ec2ea62980a820297e3.jpg
Best answer:
Answer by Brenda
You did not mention neutering, so I am guessing that he is in tact. Having him neutered may have a position affect on his dog-to-dog aggression. That’s the first thing. It’s hard to find a playmate for a 100-pound dog, I know that. But he’s probably feeling sexually mature, so now he’s ready to bring it on with other male dogs (or female: that’s the way the world is today).
Neuter him and try again, ALWAYS HAVING HIM ON LEASH. Do you know how to read “body language”? If not get a book by Turid –oh, what is her last name Ruugas? something like that? It is excellent to show you what the dog’s positions in relation to other dogs means. You’ll be able to “see” very clearly whether or not he’s being truly aggressive or if he changes his mind and wants to play.
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he doesn’t have to LIKE other dogs.
butt sniffing is NOT necessary.
provided that he can properly handle himself around other dogs, you need not FORCE him to actually INTERACT.
he doesn’t need doggy play dates.
if he can sit by your side, across the park or room from another dog and not go absolutely bat-spit, then he is just fine.
when he acts appropriately (ignoring the other dog, or acting friendly) pet and reward him.
when he acts dominant or aggressive towards the other dog, CORRECT him hard. make him understand that it’s NOT ok with you for him to do that.
The breed you own does have some genetic animal aggression issues which means that they cannot be eliminated, but, they can be managed. They are a strong breed temperament wise and they need a strong minded owner. Dogs were NOT meant to go on play dates and socialize with other strange dogs, drinking tea and discussing the philosophical aspects of life.
Evolution only states that dogs are social to their own pack, with some adjustments, and that is it.
Train your dog using proven methods and enjoy an obedient companion. Hope I helped!
There are dog socializing classes; they’re called puppy kindergarten. He’s already too old.
Look for a class in basic and household obedience, maybe one that will lead to a CGC. The trainer can help you with his behavior; warn her when you sign up.