Why do you need to address dog aggression as early as possible
Introduction
Dog aggression is a serious problem that can be dangerous for both dogs and people. It is important to address dog aggression early on, as it can escalate over time.
There are many reasons why dogs may become aggressive. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Fear: Dogs may become aggressive if they are afraid of other dogs, people, or objects.
- Pain: Dogs may become aggressive if they are in pain.
- Resource guarding: Dogs may become aggressive if they are guarding their food, toys, or other resources.
- Territorial behavior: Dogs may become aggressive if they feel threatened in their territory.
Common Misconceptions
There are a few common misconceptions about dog aggression. Here are a few of the most common ones:
- My dog is aggressive because he's dominant. This is not always the case. In fact, most dogs who are aggressive are not dominant at all. They are often fearful or anxious.
- I can't do anything to change my dog's aggression. This is not true. With the right training and management, most dogs can be taught to control their aggression.
- I need to punish my dog for being aggressive. This is a mistake. Punishment will only make the aggression worse.
Dog Aggression - Video Walkthrough
Steps to Address
Teaching Phase:
- Start by desensitizing your dog to being around other dogs. Use other dogs that are neutral and calm to avoid triggers like energy or noise.
- Mark and reward for calm behavior. With your dog on leash and collar or confined to a crate/kennel, and at a comfortable distance from the other dog, mark and reward whenever your dog looks at, scents, or demonstrates calm, obedient behavior. You may want to use basic obedience commands your dog is familiar with to prevent fixation or inappropriate behavior. Mark and reward for obedient behavior.
Reinforcing Phase:
- Once your dog is comfortable with other dogs nearby and is not showing reactive behaviors, decrease the distance between the dogs. You may begin to incorporate basic obedience commands your dog knows well to prevent fixation and reactivity.
- Mark and reward variably for positive or neutral behaviors around other dogs. Apply corrections when your dog is disobedient or does something inappropriate.
Proofing Phase:
- Incorporate a variety of dogs (small/large, male/female, energetic/soft, assertive/passive) into your training sessions. Mark and reward when your dog succeeds around each new type of dog.
- If aggression is manageable, you can allow your dog more freedom around other dogs. Variably reward if your dog chooses appropriate behavior on their own. Apply corrections for inappropriate behavior or reactivity.
- You may want to use management commands like "out" or "come" to redirect your dog's attention if they are loading or showing signs of stress, discomfort, or reactivity.
- A muzzle or ecollar are often beneficial tools to use to allow your dog more freedom while also ensuring control and the safety of the other dog.
- In cases of severe dog aggression, the dog will never tolerate other dogs if given too much freedom. It is best to keep your dog on leash and collar and not allow them to be near other dogs. It's important to advocate for your dog and use structure and obedience to keep your dog successful.
Maintenance Phase:
- In dog aggression cases, you will need to make yourself familiar with your dog's triggers and social limits.
- Never allow your dog in a situation where you know they will become stressed or take the opportunity to be reactive.
- Always supervise your dog around other dogs. It's very important to be aware of your dog's surroundings and their state of mind when they are around other dogs that may trigger aggression.
- Reward your dog for positive or neutral behaviors around other dogs. Correct for inappropriate or aggressive behaviors.
- You may decide to regularly use a muzzle or ecollar when there is a possibility an aggressive dog will be around other dogs.
- If necessary, keep them on leash and collar, in a crate, or use an alternative method of restriction to keep your dog successful.
Case Studies
- Case Study 1: A dog named Max was aggressive towards other dogs. He would bark, growl, and lunge at other dogs whenever he saw them. His owners tried to punish him for his behavior, but it only made things worse. They eventually brought Max to Partners Dog School for help.
- Case Study 2: A dog named Bella was aggressive towards people. She would bark, growl, and lunge at people whenever they came near her. Her owners were afraid to take her for walks or to the park. They eventually brought Bella to Partners Dog School for help.
Pet Parent Coaching Tips
- Be aware of your dog's triggers. What makes your dog aggressive? Once you know your dog's triggers, you can start to avoid them or manage them.
- Never punish your dog for being aggressive. This will only make the aggression worse.
- Seek professional help if your dog is aggressive. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can help you to assess the situation and develop a training plan that is safe and effective.
Conclusion
Dog aggression is a serious problem, but it can be addressed with the right training and management. By following the tips in this article, you can help your dog to overcome their aggression and live a happy and healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How long will it take to treat my dog's aggression?
A: The amount of time it takes to treat a dog's aggression will vary depending on the individual dog and the severity of the problem. However, with patience and consistency, most dogs can be helped.
- Q: What if my dog is very aggressive?
A: If your dog is very aggressive, it is important to seek professional help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. They will be able to assess the situation and develop a training plan that is safe and effective.