How to deal with an aggressive dog

Puppies by nature are friendly and playful. As they mature, they can often develop personality traits that are often more difficult to control. Many factors contribute to the mature dog’s temperament. These factors range from genetics to how you handle control and train your new puppy.

Dogs are social “pack” animals by nature and are quick to develop a pecking order when dealing with other individuals. When there are two or more dogs in an area, one is quick to become “alpha” or leader of the group. This alpha individual is the one that all others back down from when it comes to such things as food; sleep areas, mates, toys and most any other conflicts. In the majority of cases, the submissive dog will give in or back down without protest.

As an owner, it is important to understand a dog’s instinct and make sure the pet does not attempt to seize control from you. A dog that is trying to dominate it’s owner will often refuse commands and even challenge an owner’s attempts handle, approach or control it. It isn’t uncommon for dogs to become overly possessive towards a valued object such as a favorite toy or food.

A dog appearing aggressive may simply be fearful. These dogs will bite when confronted or punished in some way. They are called “fear biters”.

Choosing the right breed or puppy for you can often avoid aggressive personalities. When choosing a breed, research the normal temperament of each breed carefully. A Chow will almost never have the docile attitude of a Collie.

A prospective owner also wants to spend as much time as possible around the parents of the puppy. If possible, check out the offspring of previous litters. When picking out a puppy, make sure it is outgoing and friendly.

Give it a simple personality test to see if it has a docile temperament. Laying the puppy on it’s back and holding it there can do this. If it allows itself to stay there for a reasonable amount of time, it will usually be an easygoing dog if care is given by the owner in handling and training.

Training is best started at an early age. Reward based techniques are desirable over physical punishment. Rewards are often food, toys and most importantly, praise.

Early training can be simple things such as lifting the puppy for grooming or bathing. Staying still for nail trims and routine ear cleanings. An owner should make sure the puppy will tolerate being handled around the head and muzzle area as well as being in the down position on it’s belly or side.

Some puppies will resist areas of touch. When this occurs, continue in a gentle, calm manner until it becomes accustomed to the handling. As soon as your puppy accepts the training or handling, reward it with lavish praise and occasional treats.

Almost any dog can become aggressive when defending its food. Small children should be taught to never approach a dog that is eating. There are a few techniques to lessen the aggressive tendencies though. A dog should always be aware that you, the owner, are in control of all food. One way to accomplish this is to teach your dog to sit and wait for the bowl to be placed on the floor. Only after it is actually on the floor should the dog be allowed to come and eat. Take the time to train your dog to allow your approach and interruption of the meal. Some dogs will be easier to train if only a small portion of food is placed in bowl and the owner lifting it to refill it a few times during a single feeding. Sometimes a special treat can be added to encourage good behavior.

Often there will be dogs that become aggressive despite the owner’s best efforts. The sooner these aggressive problems are noticed and acted on, the better chances of a happy resolution. Whenever you are having difficulty in retaining control over your dog, contact your personal veterinarian immediately. He can offer additional tips on changing or controlling the behavior and if all else fails, can recommend a trainer who specializes in behavior problems.