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Old 05-04-2009, 09:11 PM   #10
QuickSilver
Thor's Human
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Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: San Francisco, CA
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Clicker training is a good idea. I think his "in your face"-ness may be a defensive mechanism to keep other dogs away.

The standard method for calming him around other dogs is to distract and reward - have him do a command like sit, and get a treat while another dog passes by. Don't give him more than he can handle, or he will go into samurai mode and reinforce his fearfulness.

For now, I suggest just carrying him a few blocks out so he can go for a walk. Give him some time to get over his fear, since it sounds like he is just getting to know you and your home too. He's got a lot on his plate right now!

You can also try going to to parks where there are not many dogs around. I really believe a lot of exercise helps with fearfulness - you don't want your dog to have any extra nervous energy.
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