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Dog aggression is any behaviour meant to intimidate or harm a person or another
animal. Aggression is often considered a training or behavioural problem,
especially in younger dogs. Learn to effectively deal with aggressive behaviour.
How do I avoid situations which may evoke aggression in my dog?
Your first priority is to keep everyone safe. Supervise, confine and/or
restrict your dog's activities until you can obtain professional training to
halt his aggression.
Consider a muzzle. If you take your dog out in public. Keep in mind that some
dogs can take off their own muzzles.
Avoid provoking situations. Don't expose your dog to situations where he's more
likely to show aggression like at a park with other dogs around.
Keep your dog confined. You may need to keep him confined to a safe room and
limit his people-contact.
Restrict your dog's activities. If your dog is possessive of food, treats or a
certain place, don't allow him access to those items. In an emergency, bribe him
with something better than what he has. For example, if he steals your shoe,
trade him the shoe for a piece of chicken.
What steps can I take to control an aggressive dog?
Deal with the problem immediately, don't avoid it.
Be sure you make it clear from your voice and demeanor his behaviour is
completely unacceptable.
Walk away from your dog and pay no attention to him. Most dogs will respond to
the loss of the things they love, such as affection and treats, with
supplication.
Go through some simple training commands to reinforce the idea that your dog
must listen to you to get your affection.
All situations involving aggression can quickly turn dangerous. If you're at all
hesitant to deal with an aggressive dog, seek help as soon as you can.
Should my aggressive dog see a vet for help?
Since aggression could be a sign of a medical problem, have your dog
examined by a vet. He'll ask you some questions about your dog's behavior and
want to know if the aggression seems to be sparked by any incident. Your vet
will want to know if there have been any recent changes in your household (such
as a new baby). He'll then give your dog a complete examination, looking for
signs he may be experiencing pain from arthritis or other physical disorders.
Arthritis: If your vet suspects arthritis, x-rays may be needed to
determine the amount of wear on your dog's joints. Your dog may be started on
anti-inflammatory medication quickly to ease his pain.
Internal problems: Blood tests may be recommended to look for any
internal problems that can't be seen on a physical examination. If abnormalities
are spotted, your vet will respond with the appropriate treatment.
Neutering: If you have an un-neutered male dog, your vet will recommend
having him neutered. The most common biters are un-neutered male dogs. Neutering
will have a positive effect on your dog's overall behavior and aggression.
If no physical problems are found, your vet may recommend a training program for
your dog and give you some starter ideas on working with an aggressive animal.
If the problem doesn't improve, your vet may recommend treating the dog with an
anti-anxiety drug to help him deal with his emotions more peacefully.
Most vets will refer you to a behaviourist.
Copyright © 1997 by David Klein. Do you have any problems with
your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN.
David is a Canine Behaviourist who works and lives in Marbella,
Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at:
http://www.thedogman.net. David has his own radio and TV shows,
and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been
working with dogs for many years and started his career in
Israel, working on the Border Police. He has been involved in
all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent
work,
and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the
past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive
approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any
form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your
home, for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388
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