my neighbour's dog

Not all large dogs are bad! They will not instinctively bite. They will not instinctively attack, unless provoked, or unless they have had bad training or bad owners.

My neighbour's rottweiler (let's call him Ranger) escaped from the yard. The owner of Ranger (let's call him James) was close behind Ranger and caught up to him fairly quickly. Two observers behind the house (let's call them Ann and Andy), saw Ranger's "escape" from James and instinctively yelled at James. "You should keep that dog chained up! He needs better training! Take him to training school! That dog is dangerous!"

Anyone who's ever met Ranger knows that Ranger is a happy, well-socialized and civilized dog. Like most dogs, he likes to sniff other dogs and people out of curiousity. He has never bitten anyone, and his tail is always wagging when you see him. Because Ranger got loose and escaped from the yard for a few seconds does not make him dangerous. Because Ranger is a Rottweiler does not make him dangerous. He is well-trained and knows how to behave. Ann and Andy, who've never met Ranger before, who've only seen him for a few seconds, decided that Ranger was a bad dog, not only because of his breed, but because of bad training from the owner.

Well, Ann and Andy, I have this to say to you. Ranger is more well-behaved than the two of you. He does not misjudge other dogs or people until he's met the dog or person. He does not bark, unlike the two of you, and he is very well-behaved and well-trained. He knows how to make friends unlike you, who've created enemies of your neighbours. To chain up a dog is to create an evil, vicious and unhappy dog. Anyone who chains up their pet is a cruel and vile person. To insult a dog and the owner, is like insulting a child and his parent. Ann and Andy, you are more vile than any breed of animal.

Rottweilers, in general get a bad rap. Their size and breed scares people. Just because a dog is big and black does not make it a mean dog. Rottweilers are incredibly smart and can be beautiful and loyal dogs. In the wrong hands, they can become vicious. With a firm hand, equalled with affection, the dog can be a very loyal and social dog. Ranger is the sweetest, happiest dog I've ever met! I dare you, Ann and Andy, to call the SPCA. They will come and see that Ranger is a well-trained, well-loved dog, and not dangerous in any way.