When Dan sees another dog in the distance, he goes completely still and just stares at it, and I suspect he’s trying to decide if it really is a dog or not. Once he’s sure it is a dog, he tries to get closer. If he’s on the lead he pulls hard and if he isn’t, he starts trotting over. A sharp “Dan!” makes him come back or stop pulling…but only until we get close. Once the other dog gets within 30 metres or so, he just bolts for it, or if he’s on the lead he strains and quivers to get further forwards.
This is a distinct improvement. 7 months ago when we moved here, he would just bolt off into the wild blue yonder as soon as another dog appeared, no matter how far away it was. The right combination of carrot and stick has made the difference. The moment he runs off, he goes back on his lead, and if he behaves well he gets a treat from my pocket.
I will win in the end!
Cheers, Tom.