Why Do Dogs Hate My Dog? Decreasing barking at you dog

Does it seem like your dog is on the receiving end of a lot of barking or other negative reactions from other dogs out on walks? If so, you probably wish you could avoid these reactions- especially if your dog is scared of other dogs.

There are lots of reasons that dogs bark at other dogs. You don't have any control over other dogs' histories with dogs, but you can influence your own dog's behavior to  might negative reactions from other dogs less likely.  

"Reactive" dogs often struggle more with dogs who stare at them. Here are three strategies for getting your dog to stare less at other dogs. This might result in fewer dogs barking at your dog. Even if it doesn't, it will pair other dogs with good stuff (treats) for your dog.

Stop Staring Strategy #1:  Treat Scatter

When your dog sees another dog approaching, move off of the sidewalk or path (or even across the street), and scatter a big handful of treats on the ground.  To collect the treats, your dog will need to put their head down and look away from the other dog. Keep scattering treats until the other dog has moved away.

Stop Staring Strategy #2: Treat Magnet

This and the next strategy are for when you want to keep moving to get quickly past another dog. Fill your hands with treats (or hold a tube of treats- you'll see a can of Easy Cheese being used in the video below). Then feed your dog continuously as you walk away from the other dog. For this strategy to work, your dog's nose needs to be "stuck" to the treats you're carrying. Adjust your walking pace, treat type, and treat delivery rate to keep your dog working on the treats until you're away from the other dog. 

Stop Staring Strategy #3: Treat Bowling

This is a fun one that many dogs love. Throw a large treat underhand (as if you were throwing a bowling ball) so that it rolls down the sidewalk in front of you in the direction you want to move.  If your dog loves chasing critters or tennis balls, they might love chasing the treat down. Repeat the process until you're far from the other dog. 

If you found these tips helpful, or if you have important pointers that have helped you, we'd like to hear from you! You can comment below this blog, shoot us an email ([email protected]), or message us on Facebook or Instagram.