Black Dog 2

Hi Bonniedog. Your query seems along similar lines to mine, but you have got replies (I will try and provide more specific wording in my queries in future). I was recommended a Head Collar by my training school. I am not sure if that is different from a Halti or just a different brand. It has been reasonably successful, but my dog hates it. I find 95 per cent of the time he walks excellently without the need for any special device, but meeting other dogs creates problems. I will keep monitoring your topic. Good luck. Labradors are beautiful dogs and they do mature all too soon.

Greetings. Having just discovered this website, I am new to these forums, so please bear with me if I make a mistake. I have a one year old Labrador (male, desexed) who is a beautiful dog and the joy of my life. We go to obedience school each week, and he is doing very well. He is (usually) well behaved around other dogs and their owners in that environment, including on-street work. He seems to love all other dogs and people, and is very good natured. My difficulties arise when we are walking in the street or near the local dog park. He becomes extremely excited the moment he notices another dog, particularly if it is a one on one situation, and the other dog is off-lead. As he is a big strong boy, he can become very difficult to control and does not easily respond to the normal commands (like sit, etc.). I tend not to let him run free in the local dog park as I feel his behaviour is a bit "over the top" and may annoy others. He shows absolutely no aggression, but rather a desire for vigorous play. I have never heard him growl. The same can be true at home if unexpected callers come to the front door. We are a one dog, single person houshold. Visitors are rare and such incidents are therefore infrequent. Otherwise he is extremely well behaved and co-operative. I keep him well exercised: walk him twice a day and have regular training and game sessions in the back yard. I feel that his excitement stems from his sheer joy in encountering a person and/or dog other than myself. I would be most grateful to receive any suggestions via this forum.