I think I'm just looking for reassurance. We have an 8 month old black lab, who is a big goofball with a loud voice. Loves everyone and every dog is his new best friend, but has a problem with understanding that not everyone/dog wants to play with him.
We have been working on him barking at other dogs (not aggressive, wants to run up to them and play). Has never attacked anyone, and actually is the first one to back down when there is an assertive dog. I've essentially never had to worry about him being aggressive. He is not neutered yet, and we are going with our vets recommendation at 12 months for his health
We are regulars at our local dog park and we've never had problems with any of the dogs that come by. We're at the park today, and he's having a great time and he barks at this older gentleman coming in with his dog. I'm trying my best to calm my pup down when the guy yells at us to shut up. I understand, it's annoying.
What happens next was so fast. I'm not sure what exactly went down. Another dog comes in the park and this dog and my puppy are barking at each other and suddenly they're going at it. I get in to pull my boy out. In the middle of it all, the old man from earlier yells at us to get my "aggressive dog out of the park!" I'm leashing up, and walking away and the whole time the old man is yelling at me, "how old is your dog? How come he's not neutered yet? That's not good for the park."
He wasn't a park ranger, he doesnt work for the park, and he wasn't the owner of the other dog. But because I'm so shocked, I don't say anything and walk away while crying. My puppy is ok, nothing bleeding and hes not limping. Still his bouncy goofy self. But now I feel like I'm failing as a dog parent and I feel like we can't go to any of the dog parks anymore.
If you made it this far, thank you for reading. Just emotional right now as I pet my goofy bear next to me.
submitted by /u/TechnicianDecent6521
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