she wont let other dogs near me

Posted by lindawaghorne
Mar 5, 2012
Hi I have 2 spaniels 1 male Cisco aged 5.1 female Mitzi aged 4.
Mitzi will not let any other dog other than Cisco anywhere near me, either in our home or anywhere else. I have tried making her lie down & telling her no but she soon goes for them. It is quite easy to control at home but when off leash in the dog park any dog that comes anywhere near me gets a nipand chased off.
Any ideas would be greatfully recieved.
Linda
Posted by MaxHollyNoah
Mar 5, 2012
Hi Linda,

If I were you, I would do this:

You will need someone who can help you at the dog park. First keep Mitzi leashed and have that person hold the leash in the park. You walk away from Mitzi to meet as many dogs in the park while Mitzi can still see you. You can pet them and interact with them (kind of showing off to Mitzi that other dogs can get your attention too).

Mitzi might not be very happy but you will repeat this. Then, you will take Mitzi to some of the dogs that you and the dogs owners agree to try meet and greet. Instead of other dogs come close to Mitzi, have Mitzi approach other dogs still on the leash and see how she acts (how much closer she can torelate and stay calm).

This will be a very slow process but I think it's worse trying. Also, if your friend is rather dog savvy, have him/her walk Mitzi. It is possible that she behaves better when someone else but you holds the leash.

Good luck
Posted by KOPCaroline
Mar 7, 2012
Hi Linda,

I think MHN's idea could give good results - I would encourage trying it

Otherwise, I'd say don't let Mitsi off lead until you have total control of her. You should practice your "come" "no" and "leave it" type commands - be sure she listens 100% of the time, no matter what distractions are around. This is where friends at the dog park could help - have them and their dogs interact with Mitsi on lead while you tell her no and recall her, etc.

If she misbehaves, its time to go home. Acting up = no more fun. It may be frustrating if she acts up immediately, but she should learn quickly enough.

I hope you start to see results soon - please let us know how you're getting on!