[Maximo]

This is a big challenge that Max struggles with too. Part of it is feeling territorial when we are on our daily walking routes.

Sometimes it is excitement. Max usually gets rambunctious until he can meet the other dog, but that isn't always possible.

Other times it is guarding. Max thinks it is his job to protect me and his doggy brother.

My boys are not food motivated outdoors, so that is not a training option for me. I could put a plate of chicken in front of Max and it wouldn't distract him.

The only things that work for me are to tell Max to sit and settle down until the other dog is out of sight. Changing direction also helps. Sometimes I have to threaten to end the walk early and take him home. I have carried through on the threat, and he remembers for awhile.

Practice and desensitizing are key. Our problems are worse when we go a long time without walking around other dogs. When we are more consistent about being around other dogs on leash, our problems subside.