When your dog hates other dogs it can be hard to even go for a short walk around the neighborhood. Here's everything you need to know about this behavior problem.
Just like human beings, certain dogs are less social than others. While there are some dogs that wrestle and play with their peers without showing the slightest snarl, there are many examples of dog who hate other dogs.
Anti-social behavior becomes obvious the moment a dog is introduced to another dog. These dogs often growl and sometimes try to bite or attack the other dog. Oppositely, some dogs show distaste for their peers by ignoring them altogether. Dogs that display this behavior will usually try to avoid any type of physical contact with other dogs.
Why Some Dogs Hate Other Dogs
Dog-hating dogs are often the product of an extended stay in an overcrowded shelter. Living in close quarters alongside other dogs, some of whom may be aggressive and hostile, forces a dog to develop a sense of dominance as a means of self preservation. Most shelters do a good job of keeping the more aggressive dogs separated from the pack, but it is a problem that can't always be avoided.
Conversely, dogs that haven't been raised around other animals may also become hostile when introduced to other dogs. These dogs display this type of behavior because of unfamiliarity with their peers. In the same way they react to a stranger, they bark and growl at dogs they don't know.
The other type of dog who hates other dogs displays socially avoidant behavior. When these dogs are presented with another dog their movements become stiff and cautious. This type of dog has the potential to become aggressive if provoked by another animal.
How to Solve the Problem
Either way, obedience work can help to solve the problem. Regular supervised contact with other dogs will teach your dog to feel safe and comfortable around his or her canine peers. Teach your dog what is expected of him or her. If the task becomes too overwhelming, hire a professional trainer to assist you.
The bottom line is that you want to feel comfortable taking your dog out in public. To gain that sense of confidence and control over your dog, some extra training is required. With a little patience, an anti-social and aggressive dog can be transformed into the most popular dog in the dog park. Commit both yourself and your dog to fixing the problem of your dog hating other dogs.
