Having a dog or dogs as part of a household is common. We all love the idea of belly rubs, dog kisses, and playing catch with our dogs, but unfortunately, some owners experience it differently. One of the most frustrating experiences of a fur parent is having to deal with an aggressive dog.
Does your dog lunge or charge at humans or other dogs? Does it bare its teeth and growl while assuming a rigid position? Does it mouth (bite without pressure), snap, or worse, actually bite?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, read on to find some useful advice about dealing with your dog’s aggressive temperament.
A sudden onset of aggression, especially in a dog that used to be tame and gentle might have been prompted by pain or discomfort from an underlying medical condition. It is always a good idea to take your dog to the vet to have a thorough exam.
Even if it does turn out that your dog is healthy and not suffering from a medical condition, the vet visit can also be an opportunity to ask for tips and recommendations from a certified dog behavior consultant. They possess the requisite knowledge, training, and skills needed to correct a dog that is already exhibiting aggression compared to an average dog trainer.
On the other hand, a dog trainer may be your go-to for a puppy so that it learns proper behavior at the onset.
Your dog won’t achieve behavior modification instantly. While your dog is still undergoing training, it is still likely to exhibit aggressiveness now and then. As such, do not underestimate safety.
Consider strategies that help you manage the behavior rather than rely on the behavior actually being modified or changed. For example, you can keep your dog on a lease, crate, or gated space. You may also consider using a good muzzle. Utilizing these support items creates barriers that provide a safe environment for your dog while also effectively preventing any humans from attacks or bites.
Keep in mind though that using these items should be used as recommended by professionals. Restricting a dog far too long, particularly without opportunities for exercise and play, may very likely increase its aggressive tendencies resulting from too much pent-up energy.
Biting is considered one of the most dangerous manifestations of aggression, but it is very unlikely to be the first one a dog will do in the presence of a trigger or stimulus. Chances are before the bite, the dog has already shown outward signs of discomfort or feeling threatened.
As a dog owner, it’s important to consciously take note of the initial signs of your dog being uncomfortable or unsafe, and intervene before the behavior escalates. It is also crucial to determine what triggers your dog’s aggressive behavior so that you can avoid them altogether. It may not be a good idea to attempt to desensitize your dog without professional advice.
Russell’s K9 Academy is here to help you fix your aggressive dog. Russell’s K9 Academy is here to help you help your furry best friend. We believe that there are no bad dogs, just misunderstood dogs; and that no dog should be left behind because they are family!
We take pride in offering three generations of K9 training and behavior modification rehabilitation training in all of Central Florida. Our expert trainers and behaviorists offer a wide spectrum of programs to overcome aggression in dogs of all breeds and sizes.
The best bonding days with you and your dog are yet to come! Know more about our training programs. Contact us at 1-386-265-3501 or through our contact form to get started.
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