Tommy and other staffies

Morning all,
First a quick update on Tommy's jaw injury which I posted about on Sunday. After a day of some discomfort Tommy now seems to be back to full fitness. Thanks to you all for your advise.
Secondly, some more advise from you experienced Staffy owners. I have Tommy off the lead for 99% of the time when walking him. He has never encountered any problems with any other dogs and he's played with big German Shepherds, English Bull Terriers and Labradors without any problems. I've never felt the need to put his leash on when approaching other dogs off their leads. However recently at a puppy class, whilst on the lead, he reacted aggressively toward another staffy. Lunging forward, growling, barking and teeth bared. I thought it might be because it was another male staffy of a similar age. But today whilst on the park I saw a man with a mature Staffy bitch; I put Tommy on his lead just in case and he did exactly the same thing as he did in puppy class. I was talking with the other guy and Tommy started growling and barking to get at the other dog. Tommy is now 16 weeks old.
Is it possible that he just doesn't like other Staffies or is that me putting him on his lead is initiating his reaction? Nah help would be appreciated.
Cheers, Mike

It all depends I purpose on who they like. We take a dislike to people when we meet so why should a dog not do the same. Our male is fine with some dogs and like yours with others

Maybe it's the lead. I read that some dogs react differently on the lead than off because it restricts them. Not that I think the best solution would be to keep him off, because then it might not be that. See if it happens again I think. Could just be a few random incidents; dogs can annoy each other very quickly.

I agree , if Tommy ever growls at another dog he is usually on his lead (and Tilly too) and believe he has insecurities as he cannot protect himself as well. That said you should always make sure they are properly introduced before going off lead and I personally always clip our 2 on when I see other dogs , unless I know them already

Olly does the same thing growling and barking at other staffies ,hes great with all other breeds, weird

Dave wrote:I agree , if Tommy ever growls at another dog he is usually on his lead (and Tilly too) and believe he has insecurities as he cannot protect himself as well. That said you should always make sure they are properly introduced before going off lead and I personally always clip our 2 on when I see other dogs , unless I know them already

I agree, we always have Suki on lead unless she knows the other dog