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The doghouse

Protective labrador

7 replies

Didntwanttochangemyname · 12/08/2018 17:26

I need some advice as I'm completely stuck -
My lab (nearly 2) has become more and more protective when we are out walking and I'm at a loss for how to fix it.
Since DS (toddler) and DD (baby) arrived, whenever we are out walking and meet anyone she'll run up to them barking (ears up, tail wagging) and because she's quite a big lab I worry people are scared.
At all other times her recall is great, but as soon as she sees someone in the path ahead she reacts.

We live very rurally so it really isn't often a problem, she's completely bomb - proof around sheep and livestock, but I just can't find a way to stop her reacting to people (with or without dogs).

Does anyone have any ideas of things I can try? I'd be so grateful for any tips!

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Connie5858 · 12/08/2018 20:16

I know how you feel
Exactly the same thing happened to me on Friday
She has been on the lead since
I’m thinking it may be do do with going on a familiar route every day
If I take her out of her comfort zone it may not happen. I sarent risk it though. So for now she is on the lead.

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Connie5858 · 12/08/2018 20:17

Daren't

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Ihavenoideaatall · 12/08/2018 21:20

Go to a good behaviourist if you can afford it. Google CARE for reactive dogs.

There might be places close by where there is an enclosed field you can give her a good run off lead. Web page called dog walking fields or something like that.

I'm going through similar with my lab!

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Connie5858 · 13/08/2018 15:17

.

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MellowMelly · 13/08/2018 15:27

Can you pop her back on the lead whilst walking for a while so she ‘forgets’ this behaviour? As you walk past someone distract her with a treat and praise. I had to do this with my dog and it worked well.

Like a previous poster said, it also might be worth finding another dog walking route and alternate your regular route with a new route.

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Didntwanttochangemyname · 13/08/2018 16:38

MellowMelly, I will try that - it's tricky pushing the pram, wrangling the toddler and having the dog on the lead, but it might just work.
I'll try her on a different route tomorrow too, hopefully that will help!

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MellowMelly · 13/08/2018 17:00

Yes I could well imagine it might be a bit mad trying to wrangle all three! Good luck OP!

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