Dog to dog social skills 101?

[Casey Laurie]

I have two rescues with severe socialization issues.
Does anyone have any links or resources on teaching doggie social skills to dogs?
ie: How to greet politely, when to back off, beginner dog/dog games etc

[Andre Mendizabal]

Hi Casey, I'm absolutely not a pro... but I do have some advice that might be useful. First, you should start introducing them to the NILIF program (articles section), this program teaches you all about how to train your dog to do those things you want, that is, to be a polite dog and follow your orders... plus it gives them stability, confidence and they recognize you as the boss... for what you said, I think this is the right way to go and it will help you A LOT... For dog-dog socialization, I think one on one games are what they need right now, if they are ok with each other, try to find somebody else with a dog that might be interesting in socializing with yours (either the neighborhood, doggie school, a friend, etc.), and at the beginning always keep them on a leash, let them sniff each other and communicate, see how they react and let them play, if it sounds like its going to get tough, pull them apart. Little by little you can increase the number of dogs your dogs will interact with... this is a long road for a dog with socialization issues, specially if they have dominance-aggresion problems (if they do, check with a dog behaviorist or trainer first).
I'm sure you'll receive more input about this, good luck!!! :)

[Casey Laurie]

Hi Andre,
We are already doing NILIF, thanks :) I need something more specific.

What I really need is a social skills class for reactive dogs in Boston, Ma

[Robert]

Im also looking for some in our area as well, Roxie has developed a litttle nipping issue when comes to meeting new dogs.

[Andre Mendizabal]

Oh yeah, that's really specific, sorry I can't help you with that, let me google search and if I find something that might help you I'll let you know.
bye :p

[Robert]

I found a place in lexington Pet Behavior 250.00 for a 6 month program 781-862- 5060. If that helps.