[rrr]

I'm sure I need to take my 25lb, 2yr old male mini-Aussie to a behaviorist, but I was hoping to get some insight from folks here first.....

He's a great dog, except for one thing: when we are out for walks, if he sees any dog walking nearby he goes completely insane. Screams and barks like he is being attacked and dying. I think if I unclipped his leash, he'd attack the other dog (I would never do this!). It doesn't matter if the dog is small or large, it's the same response. I tried to distract him with treats, etc, but he ignores me in his rage. As we approach and pass the dog he continues this craziness. If we stop and see if we can let them 'greet & sniff', he calms a bit.... but he'll lunge and try to bit the other dog and continue screaming/barking. I've never seen anything like this

One strange thing is that he goes to a 'doggy day care' once per week, and they say he's ok with the oher dogs there (I plan on going there tomorrow to watch for a while to see if this is really the case). Weird.

I'm guessing that this is a fear-aggression. I'm ready to call a behaviorist tomorrow, but to be honest, I am skeptical about such folks. I have heard many horror stories, but few good ones. I realize there is a potential liability lurking here... but I'm not sure how to proceed.

thoughts?

[Pitbull Lover]

Hello rrr,

It's funny to hear so many people that have the same experiences and think they are experiencing something unique to their pet. You are not alone (although that won't make you feel any better about your situation). The actions you describe are very common with dogs who were taken from their mom and siblings too early. The difference between those who were taught correct behavior by their family and those who did not is night and day. A behaviorist is a good idea as long as you get a good one. Definitely check out the doggy daycare situation and see if they are enforcing good dog etiquette. Also look into some classes or books on becoming the Pack Leader. Sometimes we don't realize that our behavior is creating or feeding the bad behavior.

And never let your dog meet another face to face. If possible you should walk side by side with the other owner and dog and then allow a face to rear meeting. Whatever dog is being the most calm should get first sniff.

Hope this helps a bit.

[NatalieR]

Hi,

Your dog can feel your fear and anxiety which is feuling his behavior. When you shift your behavior to being in charge he will follow...
When he seems to get crazy and pulls on the leash, turn the other way quickly and make a pitchy noise. The pitchy noise is his alarm from you, telling him this behavior is wrong, turning around in the opposite direction quickly is telling him you will not allow this anymore... once he's following you have him sit in front of you, stand tall and say "be calm" when you train this behavior into your dog he will understand, then introduce him to other dogs slowly with a lead first. you'd be surprised to see that when he is in a pack his will play and connect with other dogs. Socialize him as much as possible.

Hope this helps.