How to stop my dog from barking at other dogs

Barking and lunging at other dogs on walks is usually fear, frustration or over-excitement, not aggression. The fix is to work at a distance where your dog notices the other dog but stays calm, then reward that calm and slowly close the gap over many sessions. Yanking the leash or scolding tends to make the reaction worse.

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Step by step

Find your dog's threshold — the distance at which they can see another dog but still take treats and listen.
At that distance, feed a steady stream of treats the moment your dog notices the other dog, so 'other dog' starts to predict good things.
Keep the leash loose; tension travels down the lead and adds to your dog's stress.
Only move closer once your dog stays relaxed at the current distance — progress over weeks, not in one walk.
Teach a 'look at me' or U-turn cue so you can calmly move away before your dog tips over threshold.
Avoid punishment or leash corrections — they add a negative feeling to the sight of other dogs and can turn fear into real aggression.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my dog bark at other dogs only on the leash?

The leash removes your dog's ability to move away or greet naturally, which creates frustration or fear. That trapped feeling comes out as barking and lunging even in dogs who are friendly off-leash.

Is my dog being aggressive or reactive?

Most leash-barking is reactivity — an over-the-top emotional response — rather than a genuine intent to harm. If you're unsure or the behaviour is escalating, work with a qualified force-free trainer or behaviourist.

Should I let my dog 'say hi' to calm them down?

Usually not while they're over threshold — a tense on-leash greeting can go badly. Build calm at a distance first; controlled greetings can come much later, if at all.