26.02.2018

Dog behaviour, dogs on lead and dogs off lead…

The dynamic of a dog to dog social interaction is perceived differently, if your dog is on the lead and other dogs are off-lead – so the off-lead dogs are accessing freedom. I have witnessed many an instance where the more slightly lacking in confidence dog that is off-lead, encounters one that is on lead, then becomes a different individual altogether. The resulting reaction though may be one of hostility unless you and your dog are acting relaxed.
From this, my advice would be to be aiming for your dog’s to be off lead in a dog off-lead area with all the others present. Obviously, you should be very confident in your recall and socialization first :-)
Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Dog Best Friend.