Is my dog aggressive? · Walkys Dog Training Academy

Is my dog aggressive?

I have had a couple of recent interactions at the dog park recently where Alpha has had to be separated from other dogs, and it has left me feeling a bit lost about how to approach letting him play going forward.

Both times involved intact males that were larger than Alpha and similarly confident/dominant play styles. When Alpha was “corrected” by the other dogs (because he was being annoying - trying to take their ball or in their face when they didn’t want to play) it turned into aggression and the dogs had to be separated. It seems to me like frustration more than any aggression, as there is no real biting or “attack” and once separated and taking a moment to relax, Alpha is eager to continue playing.

He loves other dogs and plays so well with lots of other dogs, especially big high energy dogs. I used to be really comfortable introducing Alpha to new dogs, warning people he is excitable but not aggressive. These last couple of interactions have rocked me a little and I’m not sure how to best take this forward. I’m was thinking maybe I should start muzzling him, at least when playing with new dogs? Would love to hear your insights and suggestions.

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