16.11.2019

Dog Behaviour. Social dynamics between dogs when one dog is on lead and the other is off…

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, off-lead, encounters one that is on lead, then becomes a different individual altogether.
The resulting reaction may be one of hostility unless you and your dog are acting relaxed.
From this, my advice would be to aim to have your dog off lead in a off-lead area. Obviously, you should be very confident in your recall and socialization first :-)
Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dog Best Friend.