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Post by orielle on Jan 23, 2014 20:01:42 GMT
I've had my little dog Ralph for two months, he's a Bichon x Shih Tzu and he's two years old. He's 90% perfect, fine with women, children and other dogs, but he seems to have a phobia of men, and it's got to the stage where I have to cross the road to avoid men because he responds to them by rearing on his hind legs, growling and barking aggressively. He's not a biter, but you'd think he was because of how aggressive he appears. Does anyone have any tips on how to get him to be more relaxed around strangers? I'm scared people will start complaining about him soon. Strangely it's only if men are walking on their own that he freaks out, he has no problem with male dog walkers.
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Post by garrick on Jan 23, 2014 20:25:43 GMT
I'm no expert at all but it sounds like he may have had a bad experience in the past - perhaps he was hurt by a man he came into contact with.
Susie or Caroline would be brilliant in terms of advising you on this - perhaps a bit of distraction therapy might help - call his attention away from the man and give him a treat if he comes with you. My lurcher is perfect 85% of the time with other dogs but is anxious around a few and that manifests itself in a bit of aggression. We try and show him we have control of the situation and he doesn't need to worry - and distract him and then reward him.
Ralph may be trying to protect you but if you reassure him that you have control of the situation, it may take the pressure from him.
That's a real amateur's suggestion but it has helped us a bit. As I said though, Caroline and Susie would give the really valuable advice.
Good Luck
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