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Why is my Parson Terrier aggressive with older dogs and puppies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Parson Russell Terrier | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 3 months old | 22 lbs

Hi my parson terrier is friendly with other dogs but becomes aggressive with less dominant, older dogs puppy's he chases them and makes a terrible noise but no biting? when he sees another dog he lays down and rushes them?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on July 13th, 2019

It’s hard to know if this is true aggression, aggressive play or if Ted is simply not picking up on social cues. Neutering Ted may help to dampen behavioral or aggressive tendencies but behavior modification is still needed. Your best option is to work with a professional trainer who can help teach you how to modify Ted’s behavior for more polite doggy play dates. You may also need to be very selective about the dogs Ted is allowed to play with. Best of luck.

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