Problem around other dogs

I have a adopted English setter from the animal shelter. And when we come around other dogs, she will tuck her tail. and try to go the other way. If they are off leash, and the other dog tries to sniff, she will bark/growl. After one or two times of this she will settle down and play with the other dog.

Is she just trying to establish pecking order. Or do you think she might of had a bad experience with a dog in the past.

Opinions?

She sounds like she is apprehensive to me. It might be good to walk her with unresponsive and friendly but calm dogs so she gets more confident. I wouldn`t force her to say hello to any, but she won`t improve unless she is socialised with other (nice) dogs so maybe a good training class where there aren`t a lot of barky dogs would help.

I agree with what claire says, also, don't be tempted to tel her off if she snaps at another dog as this will just give her two things to worry about and will make the matters worse.

Have a look at www.apdt.co.uk to find a good class in your area.

I agree totally.