I have a 11 month old dal whom WAS the best dog eva, he was great with other dogs, and very friendly, a month ago he was attacked my a large male shepherd, he got some serious physical and mental scars.
MY beloved dog has turned from a happy friendly dog, into a nervous and aggressive one.
He becomes aggressive with other dogs, so i have had to change where i run him.

The shepherd owner agreed to pay for vets bills, which was good, but ive lost my dog!!!
will i be able to find him again!???

Heather and Spot xx

Hi Heather,

It sounds like he has entered that 'Kevin' stage when the hormones take over.  Male Dalmatians can get very 'Jack the Lad' at this age. 

Have you got some friends with other dogs that have safe temperaments to walk him with so he feels relaxed.  I found at this age mine got on better with bitches then dogs as they don't feel so threatened and find the need to defend their territory.

I won't kid you that the next few months will be easy, just try and avoid situations that you know he won't feel comfortable with.

Hope this helps
Sandra

If Jeangenie sees, this post, she might have more advice for you.

Good Luck

liberty :)

Hi,
Try not to panic. This isn't the best thing that can happen to a dog, especially not a sensitive breed with an elephantine memory like a dalmatian, and not at this particular stage in his life (adolescence). When did this attack happen?

I would try to make sure he only sees dogs that he used to be friends and play happily with, and avoid anywhere that he's likely to meet others just yet. With any luck he'll remember his friends and start to relax in their company. When he reaches this stage (can take weeks, so don't rush it) you can start to extend your range a bit.

Whatever you do, don't scold him for trying to 'see off' other dogs. This will only confirm to him that bad things happen when they are around. When you see another, try to pre-empt his reaction and tell him to 'sit'. Get him concentrating on you, then you can praise and reward him. If it goes to plan he will start to associate seeing other dogs with getting a treat from you - positive association! (Also a sitting dog finds it very hard to bark fiercely ;) )

If he hasn't improved after two or three months you should consider contacting a reputable behaviourist. But be prepared that your dal may never trust any GSD again.

Hope this helps.
:)

Hi Guest
another thing is try to relax when another dog approaches...hard I know. Do not tighten the lead and pre-empt your dog getting aggressive...this sends messages to your dog that will only make him worse. I would try to teach 'watch me' at home...give the dog the command and when he gives you the attention treat and praise.Then when out you can tell him 'watch me' when a dog approaches and keep his attention on the positive(i.e. food and praise) rather than the negative.Try and keep a slightly loose lead...and speak in calm voice.
Good luck ,Archer