What to do if your dog hates other dogs?

If your dog’s behaviour is problematic to the point that it’s dangerous, it’s imperative that you seek help from an animal behaviourist or your vet. However, if their behaviour is milder, you may like to try getting your dog used to being around other dogs through positive association and desensitisation. This involves gradually exposing your dog to other dogs, and associating the exposure with positive feedback – like a treat. When modifying any behaviour it’s best to start small and work your way up. For instance, try desensitising your dog to a dog they are already familiar with. It’s important to make sure both animals are always safe, so keep them on a leash and at a safe distance from one another. Avoid punishing your dog if they act out, as they will associate any negativity with the other dog’s presence. Instead simply cease praising them and ignore them. Over time you will be able to build up your dog’s tolerance with less familiar dogs. Remember that this process takes a lot of time and effort on your part, and will probably require the help of a skilled trainer. It’s worth considering getting your dog neutered if they are male and haven’t been desexed, as this can help decrease aggressive behaviour. Consider enrolling your dog in Canine Commandos at Best Behaviour Puppy School.

We probably should have done something about it when he was younger but we didn’t think it was as serious as it’s turned out to be. Although when he was younger we did take him to dog parks and he was perfectly fine and wouldn’t harm other dogs. To put it simply wherever we go if he sees another dog he tunnel visions onto the other dog and won’t take his eyes off of it. When we get close to the dog he will start to growl viciously and snarl too. We didn’t think it was too bad because he is super friendly with people - we have him around young children all the time and he is perfectly fine, it’s just other dogs. It’s gotten to the point now where if either me or my Dad tries to stop him from going for another dog he will snap at us. Just earlier today my Dad tried to turn his head while he was growling and he nipped his arm. I was wondering if anyone on here could help suggest some things to try and stop him from doing this because it’s begging to become embarrassing.