My gentle, timid Welsh Springer bitch(5 years) was recently jumped on by a German Shepherd when she went to investigate his ball. He did no damage but frightened her badly. The very next time we saw a German Shepherd, she froze and, I guess, looked like a victim. He went staight for her at speed and she raced home thrrugh the woods, shrieking all the way, ran across a road and waited at home. His owner said, as I stood gaping, that his dog would not hurt mine, which was true, but she obviously did not know that as he was not chasing playfully.
She has excellent recall, but walking off lead is now stressful as she is terrified not only of that breed, but of any dog whose appearance alarms her in some way unknown to me and I know her fear is stronger than her recall training. I have to be alert and pop her on lead quickly.
In addition, she acts fearfully which seems to encourage slightly bullying behaviour from some other seemingly well-socialized dogs. She has also started to bark agressively at some dogs while on lead, which I assume is to discourage them from aggression. I try to walk confidently and to be leader-like but I think the problem is worsening.
Is anyone please able to offer advice as this is making life difficult? Thanks.