Bridget

[hheldorfer]

I can speak from experience on this subject too.  Buffy has been attacked by other dogs (Pitbulls) more than once and suffered some fairly significant injuries.  I'm not trying to make you paranoid but you should always keep a close watch for other unleashed, unrestrained dogs when walking Bridget.  Several of us here on the forum have a theory that Cairns - just by their carriage, attitude and look - have a way of challenging other dogs.  I believe the theory has some merit because Cairns, unlike some dogs, don't seem to believe in being submissive when they are clearly outmatched by a larger dog.  That may be what happened with Lacey;  Lacey was trying to intimidate Bridget and Bridget, being a Cairn, wasn't backing down.

Again, please don't take this as meaning you should immediately snatch Bridget into your arms whenever you see another dog.  It's very important to be the alpha with a Cairn.  Try to keep your emotions in check and stay in control.  Bridget will pick up on your attitude and act accordingly.  

Somewhere on the forum is a topic that BradL posted regarding the "three second rule".  It explains the correct way to introduce two leashed dogs to each other.  That may also be helpful to you.

If I was in your shoes I'd talk to Lacey's mom and try introducing the dogs again when both are leashed, in a situation where you won't be taken by surprise.  There's no reason why Lacey and Bridget can't be friends even though their initial meeting was a bust.  

Good luck!

  

 

 

[Bridget]

That's very good advice, BTW, I'm Bridget, my Cairn is Ruby. They had met a couple of times before and there was no problem. Other than the fact that Lacey  (the other dog) is a bit scrappy at first, she usually settles down and is friendly. I agree that her carriage and attitude might be construed as confrontational by another dog and that may be part of it too. We'll certainly keep a close watch going forward. It's a small friendly neighborhood and we all need to be cordial if possible.

[hheldorfer]

4 minutes ago, Bridget said:

 BTW, I'm Bridget, my Cairn is Ruby

OMG, I am so sorry!  So many people have their dog's names as their forum name and . . . I completely spaced out. 

[Bridget]

That's perfectly fine. Ruby is so sweet, I don't mind being mistaken for her! Thanks for your good advice!