Re: Aggressive with other dogs, and we want a 2nd

In Reply to: Aggressive with other dogs, and we want a 2nd
Category:   Aggression
Posted by:  Lisa
Posted on:  May 11, 2003 at 21:00:01

: We REALLY want to get a second dog, but our JRT doesn't. He is not very good at being around other dogs. He growls at them, snaps, ignores them, or does something not to be mentioned. Do you think it is possible for us to get him used to other dogs and actually get another one?

Response:

Dear Lisa,

Based upon your description of your terrier's behavior toward other dogs, I don't consider his actions truly aggressive; i.e. dangerous. He may just be a bit rusty on his social skills and you may just be a bit protective of him -- both can lead him to develop an "attitude" toward other dogs.

You are correct that you are responsible for helping him get used to other dogs so I suggest you take your terrier to a group training class. In this controlled environment, he will learn how to interact with other dogs and you will learn how to appropriately deal with him when he doesn't.

This won't "guarantee" that your JRT will love and adore a companion but it may make him more likely to accept that he is "required" to share your attention and affection...and toys. :-)

Regards,
Leslie