[Maximo]

Originally Posted by Britster

I don't blame you for worrying -- I pay close attention to a dogs demeanor and body language before allowing Jackson to go say hi to ANY dog.

I do allow him to be around certain big dogs ... my uncles German Shepherd, grandma's Foxhound & Goldendoodle, other uncles Labs, etc, these are dogs I know well, and even so I always pay close attention.

Jackson is very social, and I was very lucky that as a pup, we had a lot of good dog-to-dog interactions and experiences. Nowadays though, I tend to avoid on leash greetings because it's just not really necessary. I know my boy is fine walking past other dogs, and doesn't NEED to say hi, and he's already socialized, and is good with other dogs etc.

I do think it's important for pups to have good experiences or they may turn reactive or fearful. If you have a small dog park near you, I'd check it out, and go on a slow day. Or finding a daycare or puppy meetup/play group somewhere.

Originally Posted by Britster

He is probably sensing you tense up! You don't want him to be fearful. But I also of course would avoid any interactions.

Is there any way you could bring a fav toy or treat and just continue walking by (from a distance?)

Jackson can walk by a lunging, barking dog of any size and just completely ignore them like they're not even there, lol. I did a lot of socializing as a pup and think that's why. Try to find a local park, or even go into a petsmart, etc.