I have a problem with my dog getting along with other dogs and don't even think of letting her near a cat! I would like to know if anyone has any suggestions on how I can make her understand that it could be fun to have a brother or sister. She just attacks them no matter what size!!! Would it help you think if it was a puppy instead of a adult? She was a mother once and the only dog to ever come near her that she didn't try to kill was a puppy I had in the house for a couple of hours while I was waiting for the owner to come and get it. She got down in the box with it like she was mothering it. Any help would be appreaciated. Thanks, Sally

There are several ways to 'desensitize' your dog's behavior, but without further information, it's hard to give you a 'set in stone' way to do it.
You might get on Sam maletesta's site and read what he has to say about dog agressive dogs, and try one or two of the methods he reccommends.
I don't adhere to all of his training tips, but I have seen a difference in a couple of rescues i've had here, using his methods.
The web addy is www.TalkDogTV.com

hope this helps.

Jan C and Crew

I have had a lot of problem with this behavior. Mainly it has been with terriers or with my dogs that were raised by terriers. (Why terriers are supposed to be dog aggressive in the show ring I'll never understand) My male shorthair would go after all males and some females. He did okay when I brought a puppy in (a toy fox terrier) but I watched him like a hawk because one bite and she would be gone. She in turn is very aggressive about any animal that comes within her select zones. We just got a puppy that is going to out grow her. Right now he is 10 weeks and just about the same size. He is a laid back beagle mix and she is putting the fear of god into him when he gets near her food or her favorite spots but after just a few days I am also seeing the first hints of play. I watch her close and if she gets too aggressive with him I step in but experience has taught me that unless there is danger of physical harm it is better to let them work it out for themselves.

Your situation sounds to me like a puppy might be a route to go but you will need to select a breed that has a psycic not easily damaged. (Our little guy seems to be taking her in stride) Be sure to do lots of praising and talking to when she is calm around the puppy and never leave them alone together. I thought my dogs were well used to a new kitty and all was good and one day I left them alone for a little while and came home to a dead kitty. I will never make that mistake again.

What would be your alternative if you got a puppy and it never did work out. It is misery living with two animals that have to be kept seperate. You always feel guilty that one is locked up while you are with the other.