Many people think their dogs should be sociable, they think all dogs will love each other as much as they love their owners. But this is often not the case.
Dogs have been bred to love people, we domesticated them for many reasons, but in recent years this reason has been to keep them as companions. We all want to be loved and dogs give unconditional love, but this only to people, especially their owners.
People seem to have this idea that their dogs should be friendly with all dogs, just because your dog likes people it does not mean they like dogs. Just like some people don’t like the company of other people.
With the growth of dog walkers and doggy day care, dogs that could avoid other dogs while out walking are now been thrown into contact with other dogs. This can lead to “surprise” aggression and problems for both dogs. The owners are always shocked if when someone tells them their dog is not sociable, they often day things like ” He is always sociable when I walk him” or “He is always wagging his tail when we see other dogs”, this might seem the case for many owners but they are often now aware of the subtle body language that dogs display to ether invite or keep other dogs away.
Having a dog that does not like other dogs is not a disaster, not all dogs will like other dogs. All this means is that the dog is always more focused on your when out for walks, and prefers human company. This can be great for competition dogs, as they are more focused on your than the other dogs in the area.
You might have to change your routine though, getting a bit earlier to walk to avoid other dogs, not going to training classes, warning others that your dog is not comfortable with other dogs. These small changes can make your dog happier. You could try forcing your dog in other dogs company, or making him play with other dogs in a pack but he would never be happy and would also upset the other dogs.
As long as your dog is happy why force it to be friendly with other dogs? As long as it enjoying it time outside, its time with you and its family then why try and turn its world up side down.
This is something to bare in mind when thinking of getting another dog or a puppy. Does your dog want another dog? You might think they would love the company but would they? If in doubt ask those people your walk with, or meet in the parks on if your dog is social or not. Contact a professional or speak to your family. Not all dogs will love a new doggy friend.
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