My pups have gone to all my son's games, they always sit pretty quietly, kids always ask to pet, etc. One boy comes up and gives my lab hugs after each inning. (ie they are quiet, patient, good dogs).
Well, a 10 month old tense, straining at the leash (held by a 5 year old) appeared out of no where right behind us. I did not see her until she was right behind my chair and both my dogs just pounced on her. They pulled so hard I was in one of those camping chairs that I could not hold the leashes. It lasted about 10 seconds and the dogs were separated. I was embarrassed! but I regained my composure, of course, apologized and asked if with the owner's permission (now the mom) if our dogs could greet (so it would end well). They greeted well (the beagle was tense and would spin around if her behind was sniffed but she eventually chilled) and then the beagle wanted to play. My dogs went back to sitting quietly next to me. I was still a little rattled because I could see what other people generally don't. They see my dogs going after hers, but when in reality, her unstable dog triggered mine (of which I should have been more in control).
What I learned:
- To pay closer attention! I should have been more aware of my dog's body language and catch it sooner - it went from 0 to 10 in seconds
- Dogs live in the moment (from snarling at each other to wanting to play)
- If you let your dog weave and pull in front of you in a tense or anxious state of mind, you can trigger an "attack" from seemingly docile dogs, dogs do not like the presence of an unstable dog in their midst. We've sat right next to other dogs at the game with no problem.
- Socialize and exercise your dog - this beagle was fat and anxious, 4 kids and a backyard is not enough mental stimulation...
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