[steff684]

My boyfriend and I got our first dog 2 1/2 years ago. We bought a Basset Hound puppy and named him Cooter. (well I didn't have a choice about the name) Cooter lived with us in a home with other dogs for about a year so we didn't worry about socializing him. We didn't think it was a problem until about 6 months after we moved into our first apartment. On his morning walks Cooter began barking at other dogs. He has always been really friendly, especially around people. when people used to ask if he was friendly we would tell them that he thinks he is too cute to be anything but sweet. I really think he did!

His aggression toward other dogs has grown to the point that it is embarrassing to walk him around our neighborhood and we have to go the opposite direction if we see any other dogs. He gets along well with the dogs he knows but when we try to introduce him to a new dog his tail goes between his legs, his head goes down and he gets aggressive.

I need some help finding ways to re-train him to be social with other animals. Is he beyond hope to be able to go to a dog park for the rest of his life? I sincerely, hope not. I don't have the money to take him to a dog trainer so I'm looking to do this on my own. Any tips or adivce would be greatly appreciated!!!