When Your Dog Isn´t A Social Butterfly!
Friends of the Dog
Friends of the Dog
If your dog barks, growls, or lunges at other dogs on walks—or just doesn’t seem to enjoy being around them—you’re not alone. Many dogs struggle with social interactions for reasons that aren’t always obvious. While it can be tricky to pinpoint exactly why (especially if your dog was adopted as an adult), there are a few common factors that can explain this behaviour.
Let’s look at some of the main reasons dogs can be wary—or downright unfriendly—toward others.
Breed Tendencies
Every dog breed comes with its own general temperament and instincts. Some breeds were designed to work closely in groups, while others were bred to hunt or guard.
For example, both the Chow Chow and Shar Pei can be less sociable and may show reserved or aloof tendencies and many of the Terrier breed are not tolerant to other dogs.
On the other hand, in general, breeds such as the Husky, Labrador and Golden Retriever are known to be very socials.
Of course, every dog is an individual and knowing a bit about your dog’s breed background can help you understand their natural tendencies and set realistic expectations for socialization.
Early Socialization (or Lack of It)
A puppy’s early experiences with other dogs have a huge impact on how they behave later in life. Puppies who meet and play safely with other dogs in their first three months are much more likely to grow into confident, friendly adults.
In the past, many owners were told to keep puppies isolated until all vaccinations were complete (around four months old). But today, experts recommend beginning socialization classes as early as 7–8 weeks, with proper precautions. The reason for this is that the period of 6 - 18 weeks is crucial in a pups social development, and after the 18 week period, it becomes harder for the pup to develop social skills.
Think of it like “behavioural vaccination”—early, positive experiences help prevent fear and reactivity later on.
Physical or Medical Issues
Sometimes, what looks like grumpiness is really discomfort which you may not have realized as the dog is not showing any outward signs. Even mild pain or illness can make a dog less patient or social. If your once-friendly pup suddenly becomes reactive, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying medical causes.
Even mild pain or illness can make a dog less patient or social. If your once-friendly pup suddenly becomes reactive, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying medical causes.
Predatory Instincts
If your dog only reacts to smaller dogs, it might not be true aggression at all—it could be a form of predatory behaviour. This isn’t about anger or fear; it’s simply instinct.
Certain breeds, especially hunting and herding types, have stronger chase or prey drives. To them, a fast-moving little dog can trigger the same instinct as a squirrel darting across the yard.
Leash Frustration
Some dogs are social off-leash but turn into barkers or lungers when on a lead. That’s often due to leash frustration.
When restrained, dogs can’t move freely toward or away from other dogs. They can’t perform natural greeting behaviours like approaching in an arc and sniffing politely. A tight leash creates tension, and tension often leads to reactivity.
For others, the issue may be fear—they feel trapped and try to drive the other dog away. Dogs are masters of communication and if the owner unconsciously tightens the lead when they see another dog approaching for example, the dog will pick this up and react accordingly.
Training can make a huge difference here. The goal is to teach your dog that seeing another dog predicts good things, like tasty treats or fun attention from you. Over time, your dog learns that there’s no need to bark or lunge—they can stay calm and still feel safe.
The Good News
The vast majority of dog-dog reactivity comes from fear or frustration, not true aggression. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, most dogs can learn to feel more relaxed around others.
If you’re struggling, a certified trainer or behaviourist can help you create a plan that’s tailored to your dog’s needs.
With time and understanding, your dog can learn that other dogs aren’t so bad after all—sometimes they just need a little help seeing it that way.
Let’s look at some of the main reasons dogs can be wary—or downright unfriendly—toward others.
Breed Tendencies
Every dog breed comes with its own general temperament and instincts. Some breeds were designed to work closely in groups, while others were bred to hunt or guard.
For example, both the Chow Chow and Shar Pei can be less sociable and may show reserved or aloof tendencies and many of the Terrier breed are not tolerant to other dogs.
On the other hand, in general, breeds such as the Husky, Labrador and Golden Retriever are known to be very socials.
Of course, every dog is an individual and knowing a bit about your dog’s breed background can help you understand their natural tendencies and set realistic expectations for socialization.
Early Socialization (or Lack of It)
A puppy’s early experiences with other dogs have a huge impact on how they behave later in life. Puppies who meet and play safely with other dogs in their first three months are much more likely to grow into confident, friendly adults.
In the past, many owners were told to keep puppies isolated until all vaccinations were complete (around four months old). But today, experts recommend beginning socialization classes as early as 7–8 weeks, with proper precautions. The reason for this is that the period of 6 - 18 weeks is crucial in a pups social development, and after the 18 week period, it becomes harder for the pup to develop social skills.
Think of it like “behavioural vaccination”—early, positive experiences help prevent fear and reactivity later on.
Physical or Medical Issues
Sometimes, what looks like grumpiness is really discomfort which you may not have realized as the dog is not showing any outward signs. Even mild pain or illness can make a dog less patient or social. If your once-friendly pup suddenly becomes reactive, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying medical causes.
Even mild pain or illness can make a dog less patient or social. If your once-friendly pup suddenly becomes reactive, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying medical causes.
Predatory Instincts
If your dog only reacts to smaller dogs, it might not be true aggression at all—it could be a form of predatory behaviour. This isn’t about anger or fear; it’s simply instinct.
Certain breeds, especially hunting and herding types, have stronger chase or prey drives. To them, a fast-moving little dog can trigger the same instinct as a squirrel darting across the yard.
Leash Frustration
Some dogs are social off-leash but turn into barkers or lungers when on a lead. That’s often due to leash frustration.
When restrained, dogs can’t move freely toward or away from other dogs. They can’t perform natural greeting behaviours like approaching in an arc and sniffing politely. A tight leash creates tension, and tension often leads to reactivity.
For others, the issue may be fear—they feel trapped and try to drive the other dog away. Dogs are masters of communication and if the owner unconsciously tightens the lead when they see another dog approaching for example, the dog will pick this up and react accordingly.
Training can make a huge difference here. The goal is to teach your dog that seeing another dog predicts good things, like tasty treats or fun attention from you. Over time, your dog learns that there’s no need to bark or lunge—they can stay calm and still feel safe.
The Good News
The vast majority of dog-dog reactivity comes from fear or frustration, not true aggression. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, most dogs can learn to feel more relaxed around others.
If you’re struggling, a certified trainer or behaviourist can help you create a plan that’s tailored to your dog’s needs.
With time and understanding, your dog can learn that other dogs aren’t so bad after all—sometimes they just need a little help seeing it that way.
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