[QuickSilver]

First, if you have never had a dog, I would recommend reading up on dog training, either books, or web research. The more you know, the better behaved your dog will be and the happier you'll be. There's a thread in the main forum on training books.

As for the barking -- do you know if he's excited to meet the other dog, afraid of the other dog, or if he wants to hurt the other dog? Also, how close does he get before he starts barking? Is it when he gets within a few feet, or if there is a dog anywhere in his eyeline?

My guess is that he's interested in meeting other dogs and as a puppy does not have good manners yet.

Here's is what I would recommend for you: keep an eye out for other dogs. Take him off to the side, and put him in a sit. You can also use "stay" or "watch me". Praise him and treat. As the other dog gets closer, keep giving him commands and praising him until the dog passes.

If he starts barking at the other dog, the first level of correction is to get his attention and re-focus him on you. Depending on his level of fixation, you can simply say his name, clap your hands, or if necessary, put your body in between him and the other dog to break his stare.

If he continues to bark or tries to get around you, say "uh-oh" and take him in the other direction. This way he learns that barking prevents him from getting to greet the other dog. You can do this repeatedly: he barks, turn around and walk in the other direction. Turn around again and walk towards the dog. He barks, turn around and walk in the other direction, etc. Keep in mind that if he starts really barking, that's a sign of excitement, and it will be harder to calm him down, just like it is with humans. Ideally, you can put him in situations where he is TEMPTED to bark, but able to keep his focus on you. Then you can keep stretching his abilities until he is unflappable.

As he gets calmer, you can use this technique to help him actually meet other dogs.

Good luck!