Frustration barking at the sight of another dog

CasoarConcomitant5355
Casoarconcomitant5355 Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone,

I have a dog who’s turning three in December, and since she was a puppy, she’s done nothing but bark at dogs we pass. I think it’s because she wants to go and say hello, but because she’s held back on the lead, she barks – or at least, that’s my theory. Once she actually meets the dog face-to-face, she’s absolutely delighted, rolls onto her back and shows she’s submissive.

I just can’t get my head around it. I’ve been told it might be down to frustration because she can’t get to the other dog immediately. Since I can’t afford a pet behaviourist or a dog trainer at the moment, I’m turning to you for advice and ideas on why she might be doing this. I want to make it clear that she’s not aggressive at all; she’s just very vocal! Haha.

Translated from French
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3 answers
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    • Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    When a habit has been going on for years, it’s going to take a bit more work than if it had only just started. It might be worth saving up a bit of money for a few sessions with a trainer; it shouldn't take too long, and ultimately, you’ll be the one doing the bulk of the work. The trainer will just give you the tools you need to get there.

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    ProvetoJuniorConseil
    Provetojuniorconseil Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there, What you’re describing sounds very much like leash frustration. Some dogs are extremely sociable and have a massive urge to go and meet other dogs; being held back then creates frustration, which comes out as barking, lunging, or pulling on the lead. The fact that she’s relaxed once she reaches the other dog, looks for contact, and uses calming signals suggests she’s a dog who really wants to interact, which is a positive sign. Even without a dog trainer, you can already start working on distance: when she spots a dog in the distance and is still calm, reward her with a treat or give her some praise. Gradually try to reduce the distance, without waiting for her to start barking. If she barks or pulls, it probably means you’ve got too close too quickly: move away and start again at a distance where she’s still able to listen to you. You can also teach her a simple replacement behaviour (like "watch me", returning to you, or walking nicely for a few paces) at home first, and then in areas with few distractions. Finally, I would advise against letting her greet every single dog she passes. It’s useful for her to learn that she can walk past another dog without necessarily having to go over to them. But do note: this doesn't mean she shouldn't have any playtime with other dogs, which is essential in her case. These sessions just need to be intentional and controlled rather than just letting things happen ☺️ Best of luck, Maëlla
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    Snaraellora17 Icon representing the flag French
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    Hello

    (..:)since she was a pup, she’s done nothing but bark at other dogs...

    She needed to be taught back then. Now it’s an ingrained habit. It seems difficult to change it now. So, it is a behavioural issue.

    A problem likely picked up from the dogs she’s been around. I’m very wary of copycat behaviour and therefore who my dogs socialise with. In my opinion, that’s an aggravating factor in your case.

    I have two dogs and I’ve taught them quite a few things: no one barks at anyone. It’s one of my core training principles.

    If you want to change this behaviour, you first need to teach her to pay attention: to sit and listen. For example: go somewhere and sit down with her off-lead, and the dog should observe her surroundings without reacting. Then, give her plenty of praise for every bit of progress.

    What do you think?

    Translated from French

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