Behaviour questions

I have noticed lately that Rosie on the very odd occasion shows what I consider to be a bit of an aggressive streak. It’s only with other dogs and not humans.

It’s not all dogs, not big nor small just the odd one here and there.

It concerns me as she is only 7 months old and 13 kgs however when she has her moment it’s like she is 33kgs and it’s like a switch.

I have socialised her heavily from day dot and still do. We obedience train every week, we go to the park ever day, soccer training, etc

Is this normal for the breed to have this type of trait?

Hi Dave, sorry i don't have any experience in this area but I can tell you from everything I've read at 7 months it won't be aggression, it may be her feeling the need to defend herself or stand up for herself etc when near other dogs and of course subject to the actual dog involved ie not all dogs as you say. The key is to find the trigger ie is it when dogs bowl up to her off-lead, or yapping at her. Is there a particular pattern you've noticed as to events leading up to it ?? Well done on the training, that's awesome !! I live rural just out of Sydney, I don't have access to such things unfortunately

As Bek says, it's more likely to be worry than real aggression. As well as trying to pinpoint her triggers, I'd suggest spending time trying to read her early signals so that you can avoid putting her in situation where she feels uneasy. I know it feels like a switch but she will be giving you clues, just very small ones. Look at her ears, her tail, her overall tension. Looking away is also a clue, as are yawning and licking.

Instead, keep her calm by maintaining a better distance between you and the other dog, and I'd throw some treats on the floor for her to snuffle up.

The other thing, of course, is to talk to your trainer. Do they not do behaviour work? If not, do they know someone who can help?

I don't think it's a specific staffy thing other than I do believe that staffies are prone to being sensitive and worriers, and I personally think that's got a lot to do with their reactions to other dogs.

It's very easy to confuse excited play and aggression with Staffies. Try and watch the body language and see if you can figure out rough house play from having a go.

There's a link here about body language, I'll see if I can find it and post for you.

Found the link for you...

https://staffy-bull-terrier.niceboard.com/t14672-dogs-body-language

although i do agree that it's more than likely that she's just not quite confident yet, and is anxious/worried, i also think that SOME staffords have what is called a 'game' temperament and won't necessarily like other dogs. this normally starts to show around 9 months to 1 year old. at 7 months, though, it's unlikely to be that.