Best Practices: How to Stop Dog Aggression
Aggressive dogs can be a danger to many people, especially the family with which they live. There are many reasons that dogs become aggressive, but usually it is difficult to trace their behavior back to the exact time when that aggressive behavior began. Most of the time, aggressive behavior starts out small; there’s a small growl here and a nip there. However if nothing is done to curb that behavior, that dog can quickly realize that he can get what he wants by being aggressive. This is why dog owners need to know how to stop dog aggression so that they can be happy and safe with the dog that they own.
Aggressive Behavior: The Warning Signs
There are many warning signs that your dog is becoming aggressive. One very common sign of aggression is any kind of negative behavior surrounding the dog’s food. If you find that you are unable to approach the dog while he is eating without having him growl out a warning to you, you might have an aggressive dog on your hands. Aggressive behavior will also show itself when the dog meets strangers of the human or animal variety. If you are noticing this type of behavior, knowing how to stop dog aggression is of utmost importance.
Where To Begin: Exercises To Combat Aggression
There are many exercises in behavior that you can complete with your dog in order to stop aggression. Many people think that only dog training professionals know how to stop dog aggression, but in reality anyone can complete these tactics to start repairing a dog’s behavior. Set up an area where there is just you and your dog. The area should be free from other people and distractions. Then, recreate a situation where you know your dog will begin showing his aggressive behavior. For instance, if the dog is aggressive around food, put food in front of him. Allow the dog to begin eating and then slowly, with your body turned, begin to put yourself between the dog and his food. If the dog growls or nips, give him a very stern “no” and touch him on the neck. At the same time, the dog should be sitting. If the dog rises at any time, make sure to have him sit or lie down right away. Continue this situation until the dog no longer shows that aggressive behavior. When the dog is no longer aggressive, give him a treat to let him know that what he is doing is desirable behavior.
Aggressive Behavior: Other Reasons Why
Sometimes aggressive behavior can be caused by numerous other reasons. Knowing how to stop dog aggression means understanding why the dog is showing aggressive behavior. Sometimes aggressive behavior is happening because a dog has a toothache or an underlying health problem that you are not aware of. If your dog suddenly begins acting aggressively, take him to the vet to have them look him over. That aggression might be your dog’s way of telling you something is wrong. Knowing how to stop dog aggression means that you have to understand the reason for the aggression. Your dog might also simply need more exercise. Try increasing the amount you exercise your dog by a half hour. Above all, knowing how to stop dog aggression will mean that you will be able to give your dog the best possible life he can have.
