Chapter 4: Aggressive Behavior
It can be quite a scary situation if you have a dog that has aggressive behavior because you don‘t know when they will attack. In order to burn off some steam, it‘s a good idea to take him to the park, however, try to keep him away from other dogs and people so as to prevent an attack on them.
Out and About
Here are a few pointers on how you can deal with aggressive behavior when you are out and about:
Make your dog pay attention to you so that he can be distracted from seeing other dogs.
If another dog is approaching you, do not pull the leash straight as you are giving your dog control; pull sideways on the leash to ensure that you have control of the situation.
If your dog starts to act up, try to distract him by making noises that he would respond to or a command such as ‗leave!‘ – don‘t scream or yell.
Give your dog a treat every time he learns to control his aggressive behavior.
A good idea is to get together with another dog owner so that your two dogs can meet. Keep your dog on his leash and find a place that your dog is not familiar with as your dog will become territorial in familiar places and may feel threatened by the other dog.
Watch how your dog reacts when meeting another dog. If he starts to growl, pulls on the leash or stiffens then it shows that he is not happy and you should move on.
If your dog still has aggressive tendencies, get him in a dog obedience school. There are specialized dog trainers that can work with your dog in a group. Most of the time a group setting can be better therapy for them.
Here are some other things to do and notice about your aggressive dog:
Consider neutering your dog if it‘s a male, then they won‘t feel as dominant or possess such aggressive behavior.
Aggressive dogs should not be punished in a physical manner as this only escalates the problem.
Use a leash that is retractable as this can help when you are meeting other dogs. Your dog will not feel restricted and you can still control his movements.
Just because your dog wags its tail does not mean that they are interested in being friendly with the other dog.
It‘s important that you continue to consistently maintain control over the situation, regardless of whether you are at the park, at home, or wherever you meet up with other canines.
Dog Fighting
It‘s important that your dog is kept under control in the event that they meet up with another dog. Your dog may not be an instigator when it comes to fighting, but the other dog may be. Make sure that you have trained your dog to be obedient, obeying all of your commands. Here are some ways that you can prevent your dog from fighting:
Make sure that your dog‘s collar is fitted properly. It should not be too loose or too tight.
Carry an umbrella for protection.
If an aggressive dog comes in your path, have your dog sit and look away from the aggressor. Have your umbrella available.
Neither you nor your dog should run as this just escalates the situation.
Put the umbrella between the dogs so that it will open.
Put your foot in front and say ―stay!‖, then open the umbrella.
As long as your dog is trained properly, they will do what you say and not egg on a fight with other dogs.
If the umbrella trick does not work, you and your dog must back away slowly.
Avoid making eye contact with the aggressor as it will make him more prone to attack, whether it‘s you or your dog.
If the other dog is extremely aggressive, they may still try to attack. You may have to seek additional help.
