Aggressive Yorky

Hi, I have a 1 and half year old male little Yorky. He is only 2 kg but has heaps of attitutde! He has been socialised and spends lots of time with other dogs at doggy day care. However, when I walk him on the street and we meet other dogs he instantly becomes submissive then quickly becomes aggressive. I'm not sure how to break him on this. It seems we can't pass any other dog without him being aggressive towards them. I'm worried it's going to get him into trouble! Thanks so much. Mel
Posted: 08/04/2007   

Answer: Aggressive Yorky.
This is very much so the Terrier coming out. Although they are a toy breed, they still are Terriers. Due to happily enjoying the doggy day care life I can only assume he thinks he is looking after you! Dogs DO respond to confident leaders and strong body language. You need to let your little man know that you are in charge and you don?t need anyone looking after you! When walking, take large strides, head up high, eyes up and not on him (literally look at him out of the corner of your eye) and be as confident as you can. Don?t allow him to walk on a long lead, keep him quite close to your left hand side. When a dog approaches, step up the whole body language 100%. You mean business! Don?t look at him! By now, he should have no choice but to follow your lead. Charge past the on coming dog, don?t stop even if he carries on. Once you have safely passed and he is walking calmly next to you offer a treat.
Posted: 13/04/2007