Do you have an aggressive dog that you don't know what to do with? Keep reading and learn more about aggressive dog training here.
1.2 million dogs in shelters are put down regularly. Many of these animals end up in the shelter because they aren't a good fit for the families that adopted them.
If you dig a bit deeper, you'll find one of the main reasons people bring dogs back to the shelter is because they're overly aggressive. If you're looking to find a solution that ensures you get to keep your pet, you've come to the right place.
Why Do Dogs Become Aggressive?
The thing is, dogs don't become aggressive for no reason; several factors contribute to them becoming aggressive over time. As their owner, you should make a note of what's going on around the dog when they become agitated and aggressive.
The first reason your dog might become aggressive is that they're scared. Much like other animals, if your dog feels as if they have nowhere to go when they're afraid, the only other reaction they have is to protect themselves.
Typically, if a dog has a past of neglect or abuse, they're going to act out aggressively when they're triggered. Another reason your dog might exhibit aggression is when they are feeling territorial.
There will be times when your dog feels the need to protect its space and those in it. For example, if someone enters your Dallas home and your dog begins to act aggressively, it could be because they want to protect you.
Puppies won't be territorial, but as they grow into adults, this can happen more frequently. Now that you've got a better understanding of why dogs are aggressive, it's essential you know the signs of aggression.
Warning Signs of Aggression
It's easy to miss signs, but if you're going to place your dog into dog obedience training classes, you'll need to make a note of these signs to relay them to the trainer. Sometimes it might seem as if these aggressive behaviors come out of nowhere, while other times, it escalates slowly.
One sign you might notice is your pet pacing in situations when they're beginning to feel corned or uncomfortable. This is the warning signal before your dog is in attack mode.
Another sign is your dog nipping at people. Again, this is a warning for whoever is in their space to back up and leave them alone.
If you don't leave them alone, they can bite you or someone else, leaving bruises and skin tears. There's something called the muzzle punch that some dogs do when they're about to resort to biting.
It's when they nudge the thing they perceive as a threat with their nose. If your dog is exhibiting these signs, chances are it's time to speak with a professional about dog training.
Tips for Dog Training
Of course, if you're able to, you must turn to a professional to train your dog because they've got the experience and track record needed to train dogs and redirect negative behavior into positive behavior.
Before hiring a trainer, ensure you've got a clear understanding of the training facilities' philosophy and take time to find out if they have a location in the Dallas, Carrollton, or DFW area for your pet to be trained in. If you're not able to hire a trainer, you can try training your dog yourself.
The thing about training your dog is you've got to reinforce positive behaviors. When your dog exhibits negative behavior, one thing you must do is remain calm at all times.
Even though you're calm, you need to speak to your dog with an authoritative voice to let them know you mean business. Don't respond to your dog's behavior with aggression because not only will it make their behavior worse; it undoes the things you've trained them to do.
More Training Tips
There are more tips we can give you when it comes to training, with the first being having treats on hand. When your dog does something you're pleased with, let them know by rewarding them with a treat.
Over time, they'll begin to understand that they'll be rewarded when they act positively, which can help minimize aggressive episodes. Patience is also a tool that you need to have on your side at all times.
When you're training your dog, their behavior isn't going to change overnight, and it can be frustrating not to see an immediate change. Take things one step at a time.
As your dog makes progress, don't throw them into new and unfamiliar situations that can increase their anxiety. For example, if your dog shows aggression around strangers, there's a way to introduce them without causing your dog to feel cornered.
Instead of allowing a large group of people to enter your home try bringing in one person at a time. Or you could try bringing your dark to an open area such as a park to meet new people.
This way, they don't feel cornered the way they'd feel in an enclosed area.
Aggressive Dog Training 101
When it comes to aggressive dog training, you must know what triggers your dog's aggression. You should also observe the warning signs and take action before it gets worse.
Before your dog's aggression becomes too much to handle, stop what you're doing and request a consultation from K-9 Culture Dog Training. Our experts can help you turn a situation around before it's too late.
Get back to enjoying the time you spend with your dog today!
K-9 Culture Dog Training
Carrollton, TX
972-245-1587