Kelpie X Lab attacks other dogs - 2010-01-18

Question

I have a 5yr kelpie x Lab, she is the most gentle thing but lately has been attacking other dogs, it mainly females. We are not sure how to train it out of her, we would love to be able to take her to the beach but just can't risk it.

Answer

If she was placid and friendly in the past there must be a reason that this has changed. Have her checked over by the vet, it may well be health related. When this is excluded, go back and try and consider ANYTHING that has changed and or has affected her since it started. Identifying an incident where another boisterous dog being rough with her could be enough, another female that attacked her or any similar event. Identifying this will help a lot – as you know the cause. Dogs do not change just like this, it either builds up very slowly over time and/or is related a previous bad experience. I would work with her on leash and get her re-introduced to calm and gentle female dogs (also on the leash) before any safe off leash work can happen. Only reward positive reactions.If persists, seek professional advice locally.