[gumbysuz]

Originally Posted by Ringo1

I took my Westie to a trainer because he was so aggressive to other dogs (usually big ones) on a walk.

His methods were somewjat less than positive and probably made him worse.

Here is what worked for him: first I used the 'watch me' technique. Hold a treat up to your face and say 'watch me'. When your dog turns and gives you his attention and is, in fact, 'watching you' then give him a treat. Do this a few times until he knows the 'watch me' command.

Then start using it in a walk; when another dog approaches and your starts going crazy -use the 'watch me' command. Hopefully, he will realize a yummy treat is coming his way and give YOU his attention instead of the approaching dog. Then treat him.
In addition, give a command (sit, for example). With practice, even the neighbors commented on how much more mannered Dori was.

Eventually, he will come to associate an approaching dog with something good - like a treat and he will no longer spend all his time barking and carrying on.

This took a long time and still requires that I remain focused on our walks. When I see another dog approaching and sense that Ringo is about to go off; I put him at a heel. I no longer need to take treats with me - but I still have to be focused otherwise, he will go off on the approaching dog.

This is definitely something you can work on and improve.