My Dog Attacked Another Dog Unprovoked – Advice PLZ

Seeking help
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i everyone,

I’m really stressed out and need some advice. Yesterday, my dog attacked another dog at the park completely unprovoked. My dog has never shown aggression like this before, so I’m shocked and don’t know what to do.

Here are key details:

  • My dog is a 4-year-old Labrador Retriever.
  • The other dog didn’t seem to do anything to provoke the attack.
  • No serious injuries occurred, but it was very scary for everyone involved.
  • I’ve already apologized to the other dog’s owner and covered any vet costs.

Has anyone experienced something similar? What steps should I take to prevent this from happening again? Should I consult a trainer or a vet?

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Use the Muzzle Up Project to start your muzzle training. Using a muzzle is a smart decision if your dog gets along well with other dogs but is potentially dangerous 1% of the time. It allows your dog to socialise with people while protecting him from potential bites in the rare instances that they occur. Don’t forget to go to the veterinarian. It’s possible that your dog’s illness or injury is the reason behind his increased irritability.

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It seems like he needs to visit the vet to find out if something caused the attack. Any change in behavior should be checked by a vet. Giving him up to a shelter isn’t the answer; keeping him away from other dogs all the time is a better solution.

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I’ve had a similar experience with my dog, a 5-year-old Golden Retriever, who unexpectedly reacted aggressively towards another dog during a walk. It was surprising since he had always been friendly. After the incident, I consulted with a vet to rule out any medical issues and then worked with a professional dog trainer who specialized in behavior modification. This approach helped us identify triggers and implement effective training techniques to manage and prevent aggressive behavior. I’d recommend starting with a vet to ensure there are no underlying health issues and then seeking a trainer with experience in dog aggression. Consistent training and understanding your dog’s behavior can make a significant difference in preventing future incidents.