Dog parks often make the problem worse because of the rude and unruly
behavior of the dogs there. Sometimes continuing to attend a dog park
when a dog is clearly NOT enjoying the experience can permanently fix the
dog with aggressive/defensive behavior toward other dogs.


I would agree with that. Perhaps I missread the original posters
problem. It *sounded* like the dog enjoys the dog park (as mine
originally did), but that it had a dominating personality towards
other dogs, especially smaller dogs (as mine originally did). Aside
from intoducing holly to smaller dogs, and removing her when she's
being bad, how would you suggest curing her problem? I think
socialization is a great tool, especially when you don't consider
yourself an excellent dog trainer (which is a surprising percent of
dog owners).

Also, I suppose that every dog park is different. The dog park here
is a large open field (without fences). There are usually at least 10
different dogs there, most of which my dog now recognizes and is
comfortable with. I think this helps him to be comfortable with new
dogs as well. I bring my dog there at least 3 times a week, and so
does everyone else there. If you're the type of dog owner that only
brings your puppy to the dog park once in a blue moon, then I would
definitely agree with you that this is probably not helping. You
haven't given them the chance to become accustomed to the location or
the other dogs. But if you're willing to put in the time, I think
they can benefit. Also, there are no aggressive adult dogs at our
park. If there were, I'm sure this would change things as you
indicated.