Our oldest boy, Trooper Thorn, has a strong dislike of what we call "the big fuzzy dogs"; huskies, german shepherds, akitas, chows, etc. It's extremely unfortunate because we can't trust him at dog parks or doggie day care. I don't know what happened to trigger it, but about a year ago, he started getting into fights, and it was always with these types of dogs.
We have been working with him on leash on walks & whenever we see one of these dogs heading our way, we make him sit or lie down, and while the other dog passes by, we power feed him bits of cheese or other treats while we fuss over him & say "look at that big fuzzy dog; good boy!". We are hoping to get him to associate these dogs with a positive feeling (i.e. lots of treats) so maybe he will mellow, but we don't want to rush him.
Fortunately, he's got a boxer brother at home that he gets along great with, and we've arranged a few play dates with friends dogs in controlled enviroments, so he's able to burn off some of his energy, but I sure wish I could take him to the dog park again.
I agree that the man that said his dog doesn't get along with boxers should be watching his dog closely, but isn't it good, too, that he was responsible enough to give you a heads up so you could be more aware, too?
Molly S.
a has the personality of a pug :P. or perhaps i've only ever met badly socialized russels???? ah well!
