Why does he bark at some people and not others?

[ziggy925]

Why does Ruger bark at some people and not others? We were in the park yesterday and Ruger was doing fine, both with the people and the other dogs. But, a couple was walking along the sidewalk and Ruger went nuts, barking and jumping and freaking the couple out. And nobody is going to reach down and pet a "vicious" Yorkie.

Meanwhile, other people and couples will walk down the same sidewalk and he pays them no mind. He's never bitten anyone, and I think he just wants to play, but you never know. And having a dog that scares both adults and children is not good.

[BabyGirl Rosie]

I have no clue. Lol. My girls do the same thing. Some people they ignore while others drive them nuts!

[kimp5]

could he have picked up a scent on them that triggered it?

[MauiGirl]

It always makes me wonder if dogs see something we don't in people. All the dogs I've had in my life seemed to have had episodes of reacting to just certain people, and not all.

[Magnus]

Magnus does something similiar. No clue what sets him off. Some ppl/dogs he'll just look and be on his way. Some he'll show interest and will sit on the spot just observing. Then there's some he'll just go crazy on.

There's one very nice couple in my neighborhood. Also, dog owners. Magnus is really nice to the wife but barks at the hubby. Another couple, also dog owners. Would bark at the wife but totally good with the hubby.

Mysteries of these lil furballs. lol I just love them to bits!

[Harrysmum]

Originally Posted by MauiGirl

It always makes me wonder if dogs see something we don't in people. All the dogs I've had in my life seemed to have had episodes of reacting to just certain people, and not all.

Totally agree....

Harry absolutely ADORES other dogs and people - apart from the ones he takes exception to....

There's a man that lives in our Close with his wife and son - Harry goes NUTS whenever he even glimpses 'the dad'....he's never met him but he totally hates him!!

Talking to one of our neighbours the other day - apparently 'the dad' is always shouting and not at all pleasant to his family .....Harry (I think) could sense this, even through the window.

I always trust Harry's instincts Sally + Harry x

[chattiesmom]

Originally Posted by MauiGirl

It always makes me wonder if dogs see something we don't in people. All the dogs I've had in my life seemed to have had episodes of reacting to just certain people, and not all.

I agree 100%. Listen to Ziggie! I wouldn't encourage the behavior, but dogs sense things we don't trust with our own instincts.

[ziggy925]

Thanks for the input and I agree with everyone's observations. That said, it's just bad behavior I'd like to correct. Of course I will heed his warnings, but is there any way to correct this behavior? Meanwhile, I promise not to lend the lawnmower to anyone he doesn't like.