My husband and I took our 7 month old Labrador retriever and our 2 year golden retriever for a walk. My Lab is the sweetest thing; however, while we were walking one of the neighbour's children came walking towards us with his hand held out and a piece of wood in his hand. He didn't say anything just came toward my puppy. My little girl started to bark. The child kept coming towards her. His parents were close and didn't say a word. I felt bad and my husband pulled our dog in another direction. The child's mom told him that he did the right thing holding his hand out. I don't agree; I always feel parents should tell their children to ask before approaching a dog. I didn't say anything other than she didn't mean any harm. Any advise on how I should handle a situation like this and any tips on stopping my dog from barking. We have no children and always walk our dogs in the neigbourhood on their leashes. Thanks.
Your puppy is still young and I don't think mixes with children. She was scared. How would you feel if a large person who you didn't know, came up to you with a large piece of wood in their hand? If I was you I would start walking by a local school at playtime, not to near, just so she can hear the noise and see the children playing. If she barks you are too near. Just turn and walk away. When she feels ok with that go a bit nearer until she can look at the children play without barking. Do not rush her take your time.
Hi @Taffy'sMom, if your dog is normally non-reactive around children, then I dont think you need to go through BAT training. Next time, intervene early and politely by asking the child and parents to give your young dog space. If she is now reactive as a result of the stupid and ignorant behaviour of the parents, then agree with Cath's suggested remedial action. The one thing I would add is use treats to positively reward calm behaviour.
Thank you for your response. I totally agree with you and do as you suggested. Trust me, I wasn't upset with her..and we did take her in another direction. Just wish parents would teach their children to ask before approaching a dog...I have to be honest I didn't know what the boy was doing at first, thought he might just pass us.
Thank you for your note..I'm going to follow the above suggestion and I'm going to start carrying cookies for positive reinforcement. Normally I would have said something but the parents were sitting with friends and I didn't want to say something (at the time) that wouldn't have gone over well. I won't stay quiet next time. Taffy says thanks for resonding; a sweet girl doesn't need a bad reputation
