Why is my dog aggressive to other dogs after a bad incident?

Question

My dog had an incident with a big terranova who wouldn't let her be and tried constantly to mount her and the second time they met she started biting him. (she's spayed) Since that incident she's been air snapping and showing teeth, growling/yelping whenever she meets a dog that plays roughly or is too insistent either with high energy playfulness or domination. Is it possible that she is traumatised and this will persist? How can I help her? Thank you! Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 2 years and 1 month old | 54 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

Before we consider that she is traumatized by the incident, you might want to make sure she didn't suffer any injury during the unwanted advances. She could be suffering from some pain, inflammation, muscle spasms, or even urogenital trauma that is causing her to act aggressively when approached by other animals. If a vet has determined this not to be case, then yes, she could be some what traumatized from the experience. Just like in human beings, time heals all wounds. The amount of time required is up to her however and I would not try to rush things as this will likely only delay matters more. In ordinary circumstances, I would recommend light desensitization therapy but I think it is too soon to be taking that under consideration. Give her some time and space away from dogs likely to act in such a manner and hopefully she will not act this way for long. Allow her to spend time with dogs that you know act in a pleasant and calm manner for now. Hope this helps.

Why is my dog aggressive to other dogs after a bad incident?

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