For some reason my dogs have started barking their head off when they see little dogs. Especially if the little dog and they are on a lead. However when they are off lead and the other dogs is all the do is go over and sniff.

:confused:

They dont do it with big dogs or cats, just mainly anything staffy size or under. Their fur stands upon their back and they bark like mad and pul towards the little dog/s. This happened with a staffy on holiday when all the dogs were off lead, they got into a little scrap, the other owner apologised and so did we, however a moment later it was like they were best friends. I think it looks worse to me because obviously they tower over the little dogs.

Is sound like you need to do some socialisation with small dogs so that your dogs feel confident around them again. I would try to meet up with some small dogs owners and try distraction techniques when walking past on lead. Use something that your dogs like best food/toys. If your dog is toy focused then try a new toy, tug toy perhaps? and save it for walks only, do not allow them to play with it at any other time so that it remains special.

If your dogs are more likely to respond to food then use a titbit that is extra special and save that for walks only.

I agree with Gemima,

It may also be worthwhile getting them on a long lead with friendly dogs so that whilst they can still go over and say hi, and they're not stuck by you, they are still on a lead and are learning that onlead encounters are good too.

Watch yourself as well, if you are concerned now about what they will do, you will tense up and they will sense it. Really work on your own behaviour to make sure you're not sending any bad signal to your dogs otherwise they'll pick up on it and associate it with the dog.

thanks, I will.