Leash Walking Blues? Set Your Pupster up for Success

dog on a leash

Question:

My 7 year old Australian Shepherd is difficult to take out in public. If someone walks too close, she will jump up at them with mouth open and has scratched people. On the other hand, if a dog comes at her in a threatening manner, she stands still seeming to expect me to protect her.

Dr. Nichol:

Open mouth, jumping-up, without a growl or snap, sounds like an exuberant, life-of-the-party animal. Missing any sense of personal boundaries, your Aussie tries to get all over her new friends like a cheap suit. That leash in your hand is part of the problem. Our dogs certainly need safe management but getting pulled and jerked by the neck or chest doesn’t fit their genetic programming. Some adapt anyway; others get agitated and may bite.

Rather than trying to power through these embarrassing tests of wills you can set your pupster up for success. At the earliest sighting of people or dogs, say nothing – ignore completely – and march a generous distance away. Duck behind a visual obstacle like a parked car, a wall, or a big tree. Worst case, you can stand between your dog and the other person – as far from them as you can.

Wait 5-10 seconds and then steal a quick glance. If you notice a somewhat calmer Australian shepherd you should very quietly reinforce your good girl. If she is significantly relaxed, give her a treat. Repeat hundreds of times.

Dogs read everybody’s body signals. If they’re unleashed, most would engage others and may even invite petting or play. If scared they could run for the hills.  But that @#%&! leash has them trapped. Fear can ramp-up fast, possibly resulting in defensive aggression. No bueno.

Your dog doesn’t want protection; she needs an alternative. Give her a break by creating lots of space early. Be ready in case you encounter an off-leash agitator. Carry a safe and handy citronella spray called Spray Shield. It stops most marauding beasts in their tracks and causes no eye irritation. Deploy it with confidence.

For help with behavior problems, you can sign-up for a Zoom Group Conference on my website, drjeffnichol.com.

Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He provides consultations in-person and in groups by Zoom (drjeffnichol.com). Each week he shares a blog and a video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Sign up at no charge at drjeffnichol.com. Post pet questions through my website, drjeffnichol.com/contact/ or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.