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Why is my young dog suddenly aggressive with dogs she knows on walks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 13.2 lbs

My 18 month spayed female has started to become aggressive with other dogs whilst out on walks. The majority of these dogs are known to her and she has been well socialised from 12 weeks of age. She seems to dislike any dog coming near her and will lick her lips and suddenly lunge at the dog(s) bearing her teeth and growling. She then pulls away and starts to shake, with her tail wagging and looks at the other dog(s) as if she wants to play. What am I doing wrong?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on November 28th, 2017

I do not think it is anything you are specifically doing wrong. As dogs age they can have a change in personality but it is important to start training to turn this behavior around. IT sounds like she is scared and having some anxiety. I would recommend starting with basic commands like sit, stay and come. I also would recommend getting her in training classes so you can start to redirect her behavior. Once she starts feeling more confident it most likely will help with her behavior around other dogs. i hope that helps

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