I have a 3 yr. old Rattie that just does NOT like other people we come across on walks. While in the park off her leash she's fine. But on a walk she will bark and lunge at people who are walking.  Even if they are on the other side of the street or walking AWAY from us. She gets crazy! Barking like mad. She also does this while in the house and she sees someone walking by or while on her leash outside the house tied up. If I let her go I think she may bite someone she gets so crazy! It's like I never know who she's going to react to. Some days she's OK and other days she's like a madwoman. She even reacts to other dogs when we go for a walk. She's OK in the dog park - but on a leash she snaps at dogs we meet. She'll sniff them with her hackles raised and then she'll snap if they sniff back. Is this a Rattie trait and can I do something so she's a little more tolerant of people and other dogs in what she considers "her space"?

This is not an uncommon behavior, but what you do need to realize is that for long-lasting behavior change, you need to do some training, and the best way to teach your dog to stop doing one thing is to teach her to start another - something that's incompatible with the action you don't like.

This is where I would use the clicker for assistance. Train "pay attention" or "watch me" (you can also use your dog's name as a cue) by clicking and treating each time the dog looks at you. Start in a situation with little or no distractions. If your timing is good, you will be able to catch the dog's littlest glances. Carry treats with you on your walks.

If your dog is looking at you... she will NOT be pulling on the leash or lunging. I promise it works !!