poor Henry

[strawberryboat]

We have a large lump of a dog, ( boxer cross bullmastiff). We got him from a rescue almost a year ago now.

He was from what we can gather, not walked on a lead, socialized or trained.

He was put into foster care at the rescue, with two other boxers. Unfortuneately as he wasn't socialized, he lacked the social necessities, and was badly beaten up by one of the boxers.

Since he arrived, we have worked very hard with him. Lead work was a nightmare, but gradually we started to walk together, not me being dragged where he wanted. His fear responses (hackles up from neck to tail stump, foaming profusely at the mouth, barking, struggling at restraint - generally looking like a rabid monster!!) to almost everything have really reduced, eg. bikes, lorries, people, plastic bags,etc etc.

The one area that has made no progress however, is his attitude towards other dogs!! I only seem to be able to walk him very early in the morning before other dog walkers hit the road.

When passing another dog on the other side of the road is unavoidable, I usually have to use my body weight to pin him to a wall or hedge to keep him under some sort of control and remain upright!!

Any ideas or suggestions would be very much appreciated!!

Thanks
Susan

[RobD-BCactive]

Sounds like you need to desensitise and re-condition your dog to other dogs in controlled conditions, with well behaved dogs. Who's going to have the experience and the stooges ready and available, as well as the background to properly assess the causes of this reaction and ensure safety with a large vigorous dog?

Your vet may be able to recommend a good local Behavourist, or you could google and check on what qualifications / association memberships to look for. I can't link you directly to a thread on another UK forum discussing them, but "What to look for in a Trainer or Behaviourist" turns something up.

[nick_j007]

Due to the size of the dog, and implications of the behaviour I too would advise a behaviourist.

Where are you please?

Nick

[ellie4]

Yeh I would seek help with him. It could be quite dangerous if he pulls you into the road!