Rescued Dobermann: Bolting up to people problem

[riapnash]

Hi

Three weeks ago I rehomed a 4 year old rescue ex- breeding dobermann (female). She is in bad condition and I could tell immediately that during her life she has received little or no attention. During the first few days she constantly tried to get into my lap when I sat down; to which I immediately stood up and ignored her - she has now learnt that her action gets her nothing and stopped getting up. I cannot fault her on much else and for a dog that probably has never even lived in a house, she had done very well. The only thing she does do which is not good is that when off the lead, if she spots a person or other dog she bolts straight up to them. She did this last week when we came upon 3 horses and riders; she ran straight up to them and not realising their size, came straight back. She is just so pleased to see everyone. I am wondering over time if this 'attention seeking' will stop? She has good recall otherwise when people are not around, but running in mid flight towards someone I have no chance - can anyone help?!

[redhead23]

firstly Ripnash

well done to you for rehoming a dog , You have my respect for that
rescue dogs often have problems , its a new enviroment for her to be etc

however as she is a doberman im not sure she should be off her lead at all , exspecially as you and her have only just formed a relationship

remember she is a rescue dog and i would suggest you keep her on the lead as lots of people are very scared of bigger dogs such as yours.
apart from that as you say she is perfect

just enjoy your time with her and be patient , also i would go to your libary and read up as much information on dogs and training as you can

also she is 4 so it may take some time
all the best
jade x

[wolf63]

Good luck with your new friend, but as rehead23 says be a bit cautious - keep her on a lead.

I rescued a big dog and was perhaps overconfident as he seemed so well behaved. Unfortunately he was terrified of everything and went by the 'bite first, investigate later' school of doggy thought.

I had mine for 9 lovely years until he died at age 14. He was never a totally 'safe' dog - but he was a loving and lovable friend.

[lankeela]

I would say its far too soon to be letting her off the lead, as you do not know what may trigger any sort of behaviour. Unless you are totally convinced you have complete control you should keep her on a lead; take her to training classes or train her in an enclosed area.

This advice is not just for your benefit; its for hers as well. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act dogs can be taken from you and put to sleep and you prosecuted just because someone THOUGHT they were going to harm them, they don't actually have to do anything. An adult Dobe running full pelt at you can be pretty scary.

Also try teaching her the 'rapid down' (drop wherever she happens to be on your command). This can be a lifesaver
if she is running free near a road or for instance near horses or other animals, but should not be necessary as she should be on the lead in these circumstances.