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Originally Posted by kelking  ...my question is what to i do when other dogs come over? i want boomer to know i can protect him so he doesnt have to...
what do you guys do to keep unwanted dogs away? |
It's good you've developed an eye for scouting out loose dogs...that's your first best defense. If you see one 1/2 block away, turn and go another direction (I like to turn a corner if possible, so we're not moving away in a direct line with the dog).
You can usually tell how serious a charging dog is - whether they are bluffing or really want a piece of your dog. With this lab, you already know he's trouble, so if you can't avoid him and he charges, I would put your dog behind you and hold him there and then proceed to give the lab the "what for" in a deep, growly and BOOMING voice that rumbles the earth, and lean into it a bit (leaning forward "pushes" at the charging dog). "
NO! GO HOME! GIT!!!!" I will also kick my foot towards the dog while doing this, and I start as soon as they begin their approach - don't wait for the dog to get to you to "see" what's going to happen. A trigger release umbrella is also a great idea - you have the element of surprise and it can also block the direct eye contact between the dogs. If you use that, also add the "what for" I mentioned at the same time.
Forget the camcorder.....there's no way you can film it, discourage the other dog, and handle your own dog all at the same time.
Do you have a leash law where you live? Animal control is really good here about knocking on doors and getting face-to-face with people who allow their dogs to harrass others off leash.
Absolutely a male on male fight could happen at this age.
Also, young dogs that are free to roam territory on a regular basis in their neighborhood tend to claim that territory as they mature, so I would expect this dog to get worse as he ages unless something is done to make sure he's under control.