Maybe Ritalin?

[myk98it]

Max, a 2-year-old Lab mix, and I have recently moved from a 1500 sq. ft. cabin with a doggie door and 26 acres of woodland to a 700 sq. ft. apartment in a congested apartment complex. It’s quite an adjustment for both of us.

Max has always been friendly, playful and energetic. And his behavior was more than acceptable back up in the woods with the local farmers and his canine compatriots. But suddenly he’s cooped up all day with just a Kong toy/treat dispenser and has to walk (surprisingly well) on a leash.

We have found a relatively isolated expanse that we get away to most afternoons, where I let him run loose for an hour. Now remember, I said relatively isolated. He’s generally obedient, and returns when called, but when he sees a kid or (heaven help me) another dog before I do, he’s off and running: flat out, barking at the top of his lungs.

Now, what few other guys that are out there with their dogs loose don’t much care. They recognize Max for what he is, a rambunctious pup. But those soccer moms with their little tikes, or those darling blue haired old ladies with their Pekinese just get hysterical, and threaten us with everything from Animal Control to the SWAT team. I don’t blame them – I know Max IS MY RESPOSIBILITY! But even on a lease, when another dog is within a ¼ mile, much less in the apartment parking lot, he just goes spastic! He thinks everybody is his best friend!

I’ve noticed that other dogs are self-contained enough to either ignore or resignedly indulge him. Usually they’re older.

Can I fix this, or is it a matter of his maturing?
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Good advice is always welcome!