Aggression is frustrating and heartbreaking for all dog owners. It usually shows up as a growl or, in the worst cases, a bite, which is a real safety risk. Fortunately, canine aggression can be remedied. It means figuring out why your dog acts the way it does and using a training or management plan to change it.
We have listed 10 dog tips and hacks to help modify how aggressive dogs behave.
1. Get a Pet Doctor Check
Aggression is frustrating and heartbreaking for all dog owners. It usually shows up as a growl or, in the worst cases, a bite, which is a real safety risk. Fortunately, canine aggression can be remedied. It means figuring out why your dog acts the way it does and using a training or management plan to change it.
We have listed 10 dog tips and hacks to help modify how aggressive dogs behave.
2. Consult a Certified Dog Behavior Training Professional
If your dog is in good health, you should consider professional dog trainers for behavior modification. Dog aggression is difficult to resolve because it stems from a variety of underlying issues.
Qualified dog trainers can correctly determine the cause of your canine friend’s aggressive behavior, which could be anxiety, overarousal, or fear. They will then create a behavior modification plan for you to address your dog’s issues.
3. Learn your Dog’s Body Language
Dogs, unlike humans, lack the ability to communicate verbally. As a result, you should learn to decipher what your dog is saying to you through their body language. It is common for pet parents to overlook nonverbal cues from their dogs when they are nervous or anxious.
When your dog is stressed and needs some space, they will:
- Angling their bodies away.
Nose licking or yawning.
Retreating.
Directing their focus away from you.
Growling.
Baring teeth.
Charging or lunging.
Snapping.
Harsh barking.
Biting.
If you notice any of the behaviors above, back away and let your dog have some time and space to cool off.
4. Understand your Dog’s Triggers
A good way to prevent your dog’s aggression is to identify and avoid aggression triggers. For example, if your pet becomes agitated when he sees other animals, take him for walks in areas where there are few other people walking dogs or during times when there are few people in dog parks.
When you see other dogs, you can even try to block their view. Maintain a safe distance between your dog and potential triggers while using desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques.
5. Use Muzzles
Despite their negative connotation, muzzles are among the safest and most effective tools for managing dog aggression. They allow your dog to enjoy the outdoors safely without putting anyone in danger. It is a game changer and an effective failsafe for aggressive dog owners.
Basket-style muzzles are recommended by experts to allow your dog to pant, drink, take treats, and cool off effectively.
6. Avoid Punishing your Aggressive Dog
Your dog is not aggressive because he believes he is the alpha. Most aggressive dog behavior is caused by anxiety and fear. Because of this, punishments like alpha rolls, e-collars, prong collars, leash pops, and leash corrections don’t work. Scolding and yelling are also ineffective.
In fact, these strategies will exacerbate the situation. You will make a situation that is already tense worse, hurt your relationship with your dog, and make them even more afraid.
K9aholics’ expert aggression dog training focuses on boosting your dog’s confidence and making them feel safe. Use a mix of counter-conditioning, positive reinforcement, and redirection to stop your dog from acting aggressively.
7. Document your Dog’s Behavior
It can be very beneficial for owners of aggressive dogs to keep a journal of their aggressive behavior. Keep track of when he becomes aggressive and what causes it, such as the presence of visitors in your home.
You can keep track of things like:
- The stimulus or trigger
The time of day
The weather conditions when they showed aggression
The antecedents. These are the events preceding the exhibition of aggression.
The consequences. This is how you responded to the situation.
This information will be extremely useful in determining patterns in your dog’s aggressive behavior and developing a solution.
8. Consider Neutering and Spaying
Many dog owners think that the fact that more male and female dogs are getting neutered and spayed is making them more aggressive. Recent research shows that this isn’t always the case, but it may work to treat aggression in dogs that is caused by their hormones.
Consult your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer about the benefits and drawbacks of neutering or spaying your dog. You could easily and quickly resolve your dog’s aggressive issues if they recommend it.
9. Try Behavior Medications
If your dog’s behavioral expert or veterinarian suspects that anxieties and fears are the root cause of your dog’s aggression, they may advise you to use a calming medication or aid. For example, they may recommend Prozac or Xanax to help reduce your pup’s stress.
However, for best results, they should be used in conjunction with dog training. Supplements and aromatherapy are also effective natural treatments.
10. Have Realistic Expectations
It takes time to change your dog’s aggressive behavior so that he feels more confident and safe. It will take months of effort, discipline, and dedication. You will, however, see positive results if you work with professional dog trainers. Journaling is an effective and encouraging way to see how far you’ve come. You are not alone in feeling disappointed and frustrated by your aggressive dog. Set realistic goals and expect positive results over time.
