I hope I can get some advice as I have searched through alot of the threads, but none quite relate to the problem I have with my 2 year old MALE Standard Poodle.He has just started really bullying smaller dogs when off the lead, it makes no difference whether they are dogs or bitches, and if they do submit to him, he will stand over them growling, if they try to run he chases. He really used to be non aggressive, although always has been very keen to play, and most dogs disliked him as he was very bouncy. I did notice that at training club, in the last six months, he had began to growl whilst on the lead, and would not tolerate any dog within sniffing distance.
I feel at the moment very apprehensive about walking him off lead, as I would hate him to frighten another dog owner, but this makes my life very difficult as we live within spitting distance of acres of forest, and he is used to running for miles and having freedom, we don't meet many dogs, but he normally meets them, before I do.
He has been trained up to advanced plus in our class, mainly by the use of treats, and is the most wonderful dog in all other ways...brilliant with the children.
I really want either advice as to whether he should be castrated or is there anything I can do that will stop him, to summerise he does seem to be picking on dogs that are not even challedging him.
I really hope that somebody can help me, I love hearing the advice other dog owners have received, even when some replies cause such heated debates!!!
Thanks in advance Maisie