Hi, very new to this but im in desperate need of help with our new springer. She is 7 years old and we got her from a rescue centre. We have had her for 5 months now and she is perfect except for the problem we have that when we are out if any dog approaches her she pretty much jumps on them. I see it as a defence thing, she goes in with her teeth but never does any damage. We let her off lead over our field which is very large so we can move around people who also have dogs over there. She wont approach any other dog, she just wants to play ball with us, but as soon as a dog approaches she pretty much jumps on them. I know she was brought up with two huskies so i cant really make sense of it all. i did pay a private dog trainer who took us out with her and her 6 dogs and they all just run about together, she didnt pay much attention but ever since shes got worse. she shows zero aggression to people but i would just love to be able to feel more relaxed taking her out. Has anyone had a similar experience or any advice ???? Any would be appreciated x

There is nothing to worry about, how would you feel if your space was invaded?

Have a look at the following link, it sounds as though your dog is a perfectly normal, sociable dog who likes her space, and dogs are equipped to tell each other off without resorting to using their weaponry, so chill.

Flying Dog Press - Suzanne Clothier - He Just Wants To Say "Hi!"

My springer was the same, loved being around other dogs, walking with them as long as she had her own space.

Thank you both for your replies. I think the main problem is as soon as any dog gets too close she jumps straight on it and as time is going on shes paying less and less attention to me calling her off. She goes in with her teeth, she doesnt do any damage but she used to give the dog a chance to walk away before she jumped in!

I guess my main worries are that shes either going to retaliate with the wrong dog and end up very badly injured or vice versa and she ends up hurting another dog.

And thank you smokeybear. The link for the article you have posted is brilliant. Really has made me feel a lot better knowing that my dog isnt at fault its the dogs that come haring up to her. And as you say, how would we like it. We wouldnt. Thank you so much for that.