When a dog shows aggression or avoidance toward other dogs, it can be concerning for owners who want safe, harmonious interactions.
This behavior may affect walks, playtime, and socialization, and can even lead to conflict or injury if not addressed early.
We outline the common reasons why a dog may not be friendly with other dogs, and what you can do.
Dog Not Friendly with Other Dogs: Why It Happens
A dog may not be friendly with other dogs for a variety of reasons. Some dogs have naturally protective or territorial instincts that make them wary of unfamiliar dogs. Past trauma, negative experiences with other dogs, or lack of early socialization can contribute to fear-based aggression or avoidance. Medical issues, such as pain or neurological conditions, can also make a dog irritable and less tolerant of interactions.
Dogs that are not friendly with other dogs may react aggressively, fearfully, or anxiously due to past experiences, genetics, or environmental influences.
Dog Not Friendly with Other Dogs: Common Causes
Lack of Early Socialization
Dogs that were not properly exposed to other dogs during puppyhood may struggle to interact confidently later in life.
Puppies learn essential social cues, bite inhibition, and play behaviors through early interaction.
Without these experiences, adult dogs may feel anxious or defensive when encountering unfamiliar dogs. This can result in growling, lunging, or avoidance, making social situations stressful and potentially unsafe.
Related: Dog Suddenly Aggressive (Here’s why)
Fear or Anxiety
Fear and anxiety are common reasons dogs are not friendly with other dogs. A fearful dog may perceive another dog as a threat, even if the other dog is calm and friendly. Symptoms include cowering, barking, snapping, or trying to flee.
Chronic fear can affect quality of life and lead to defensive aggression. Identifying triggers and providing gradual desensitization can help reduce anxiety and promote positive interactions.
Aggression
Some dogs have strong territorial instincts or natural aggression that influences their behavior toward other dogs.
Protective instincts over home, yard, or resources can cause a dog to challenge or warn off unfamiliar dogs. Signs include growling, stiff body posture, or blocking access to certain areas.
Left unmanaged, these behaviors can escalate into fights or injury. Training and structured socialization are essential for controlling territorial aggression.
Medical Issues or Pain
Dogs experiencing pain from arthritis, dental problems, or other medical conditions may be less tolerant of other dogs.
Pain can make dogs irritable or easily startled, leading them to react aggressively or avoid interactions. Symptoms might include reluctance to play, sudden snapping, or avoidance.
Veterinary evaluation ensures underlying medical issues are identified and managed, improving behavior and quality of life.
Previous Negative Experiences
Dogs that have been attacked, bullied, or traumatized by other dogs may carry those memories into future encounters.
Such experiences can trigger fear-based aggression, growling, or avoidance even with friendly dogs.
This learned response is often reinforced over time, making early intervention important. Behavioral modification techniques can help dogs overcome negative associations and regain confidence.
Breed Traits and Genetics
Certain breeds are naturally more protective, independent, or dominant, which may influence how they interact with other dogs.
Genetics can affect temperament, reactivity, and social tolerance. Understanding breed-specific tendencies allows owners to set realistic expectations, provide proper socialization, and implement strategies to reduce conflicts during encounters.
Related: Old Dog Getting Aggressive (Why it happens)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Not Friendly with Other Dogs
Observe your dog’s behavior closely during walks and social situations, and avoid forcing interactions that may trigger aggression.
Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behavior when other dogs are nearby. Gradually introduce controlled social experiences, starting at a safe distance and rewarding relaxed responses.
Ensure your dog has a safe retreat if overwhelmed, and avoid crowded or high-stress environments until confidence improves.
If necessary, work with a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist to implement behavior modification plans tailored to your dog’s needs.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary or professional advice if your dog’s aggression escalates, includes snapping or biting, or if your dog appears fearful in most interactions.
Sudden changes in behavior, combined with signs of pain or illness, warrant immediate veterinary evaluation.
Persistent fear or aggression that interferes with daily life should be addressed by a qualified trainer or behaviorist. Early intervention reduces the risk of injury, improves your dog’s social skills, and helps create safer encounters with other dogs.
Read more: Dog Panting and Aggressive Behavior (Understanding the causes)
Key Takeaway
A dog not friendly with other dogs may struggle due to lack of socialization, fear, aggression, medical issues, negative experiences, or genetic temperament.
Observing behavior, providing controlled social opportunities, and seeking professional guidance when necessary can help manage these interactions safely.
Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to helping your dog feel more comfortable and confident around other dogs, promoting a safer and happier environment for everyone.