Dog Training

[indieanna86]

My 3 year old dog is absolutely terrified of other dogs, which makes walkies a bit of a task! Every time he sees a dog he'll bolt in the opposite direction (taking me with him!)

Can anyone suggest a way I might be able to train him, so that he doesn't see them as a threat? One day I'd like to be able to walk him off the lead and can't see it happening while he has this fear...

Thanks guys!

[lankeela]

Find a training class and explain his problem to the trainers. They should allow you to bring him and let him sit with you for a while, then progress to joining in the class when he has begun to realise that they are not going to hurt him.

Speak to the trainers before taking him, either on the phone or better still visit the class, and see how they are with other dogs. If you feel confident then take him along with a very good collar and lead on him, or even take a crate along so he can be confined, although I am sure the trainers will offer plenty of advice and encouragement.

This situation is not good for either you or the dog, and you must do something to help him overcome his fear.

[Clanad]

The problem, as I see it, is your dog has no confidence in you as his/her pack leader. Our pets, especially dogs, look to us for the same protection, confidence and leadership as they would do in the wild. from the Alpha male. (You needen't be male to achieve the same results). They operate strictly by instinct, no matter how "civilized" we have attempted to make them.
If your self image is one of confidence and calm assertiveness the dog is going to pick up on that and be more reliant on your ability to handle threats, even ones from other dogs. It doesn't take much fear on your part for the dog to instinctively sense that and go into the flight mode...
Walk the dog on a leash with your shoulders back and a purposeful stride. The dog should never be straining the leash in front of you, but should be at your side. When other dogs approach and your dog begins to display nervousness, a quick flick of the wrist on the lead will check that impulse and recenter your dogs attention on you. In fact, you should notice the dog looking at you, especially your face to determine what he should do.
If you need to, stop, address the dog directly, placing your hand in front of you, palm up and look your dog directly in the eye saying firmly but not loudly "Stop - sit". The need is to keep the dog's attention focused on you, the pack leader. If you'll do this consistently and with purpose, you will notice a difference in the dog...
Best of luck...

[indieanna86]

Thanks for the replies. Clanad, I'm afraid your theory wouldn't work as I have never displayed any nervousness whilst walking the dog and have never been afraid of approaching other dogs. A previous dog of ours had no such problem.
He has been known to run from 11 week old puppies. A flick of the wrist on his lead would do no good in this instance.
I have considered classes for a long time but our nearest centre is quite a few miles away and we don't have a car. Looks like I might have to ask a friend to take us?

Thanks anyway guys