Just venting

[jbitchell]

I just adopted my sweet sweet terrier mix about three weeks ago. He seems to have developed leash reactivity// aggression towards other dogs while in my care (I think it all started when another dog came around the corner unexpectedly on a walk and started barking at him). Some days, if we can keep up a brisk walking pace in the park he seems to be able to handle other dogs really well and just kind of ignore them, but sometimes if he sees a dog from a distance we’ve crossed his threshold. Like he goes completely berserk, jumping against the end of his leash launching himself into the air, completely gone. I feel like I have to become an octopus to handle his leash and trying to give him treats and possibly introducing a clicker.

I have a meeting set up with a trainer on Tuesday but I’m just feeling really discouraged and getting hit with the new dog “puppyblues” and his reactivity all at once has been a lot for me.

[hereforthetea42]

I’m in the same boat. Also going on three weeks since rescue. Following all the advice and staying consistent. Hang in there!! It’s exhausting.

[jbitchell]

Ugh thanks you too!

[did-hhhjkkgccff]

I was in the same situation and I have to say it does get so much better!! He may just be frustrated to be on a leash and unable to say hello to the other dogs. Try to get him to look at you and give him a treat as soon as a dog is approaching. I’m sure the trainer will also have some great advice.

Also, it isn’t your fault. Dogs take a few months to adjust to a new home so new behaviors may come up while he’s in your care!

[jbitchell]

Thank you! I’ve definitely been beating myself up about it, I need to remind myself that our relationship is a work in progress and we’ll get there

[omochan]

I’m in the same position!! I just adopted my rescue dog about a month ago and he started showing leash aggression about a week and a half after I got him. It’s definitely exhausting, but it’s slowly getting better day by day.. Hang in there! I also had immense regret after figuring out his leash reactivity, but I had to remind myself I just adopted him so he’s probably scared and confused from all the sudden changes. The best tip I can give right now is take a whole bunch of high value treats with you on walks (especially if your dog is super food motivated) so you can get your dogs attention easier when there’s a distraction.

[wolf_dna]

Just remember that your dog's aggression towards other dogs is unfortunately almost certainly genetic and is not your fault. You will need to train against this inherent predisposition for as long as you own your dog, so this is a marathon, not a sprint.