Australian Shepherd With Leash Aggression

by N J

I adopted a 9-year-old Australian Shepherd 6 months ago. Based on her dog profile from her former owner, she's never had any obedience training and has a history of nipping a stranger and a dog.

We live in a neighborhood with plenty of dogs. When we see another dog during our walks, she begins to pant heavily, lunge, and bark aggressively. I have tried to get her to focus on me before she begins to react, but fail.

When I try to walk in a different direction trying to create as much distance as I can while going to my destination, she still becomes focused on the other dog lunging and pulling towards the other dog.

It's difficult to take her on a walk without running into another dog. I'm starting to feel defeated since she is 9 years old with these behaviors. I feel like I have a steep uphill battle trying to get my dog under control. It makes walking her unbearable. I'm not looking for my Aussie to mingle (it would be great if she could) with other dogs, but mainly stop the aggression towards other dogs.

Any tips? Recommendations to where I should start? Any advice would be great. Thank you.

Note from Anton: Here are some links that might help:
Dealing With Leash Aggression
What To Do About Dog Biting And Nipping
Recommended Video-Based Dog Training Program

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