Training a Dog That Is Big and Aggressive
Training a dog that is overly aggressive towards other dogs is handled far more easily before the problem presents itself. Although that sounds like common sense, some dog owners simply don’t know that they should start training a dog at a very young age.
Unfortunately, some of them wait until the dog is 9 or 10 months old, and sometimes even older, before any type of formal training begins. Formal training does not have to be conducted in an outside school, although that is a good idea if possible. What is critical is that you start obedience training and socialization of your dog as early as possible.
Training a Dog Properly
Training a dog properly is important for any breed but it takes on an entirely new level of urgency when dealing with extra large and giant dogs. Aggressiveness shown from these breeds towards people or dogs can lead to serious injury and sometimes death.
Although this articles is not really about puppies, it should be mentioned that the temperment and overall attitude of your dog must be examined prior to bringing him home. Cases of dogs growling or snapping viciously at only a few months old are often dismissed at the time due to the dog’s size. However, that single decision can lead to major problems down the road.
Fear = Aggression
One of the greatest reasons for dogs being overly aggressive is fear. This is especially true when it comes to a dog that is looking to attack nearby dogs. In many cases, your dog simply hasn’t been socialized well enough and has developed a mindset of “attack or be attacked” even though the other dog may have no intention of doing so.
Aside from this fear created from a lack of training, your dog can also become aggressive based on your actions as an owner. Dogs will and do respond to the tone of your voice, your projected energy, and even certain scents and hormones. Therefore, if you are acting tense and stressed because you see a dog walking down the sidewalk, your dog will respond in a negative way.
Socializing Your Dog Early and Often Helps
One of the easiest solutions for training a dog not to be aggressive is to get him out and about. Remember to do this at an early age. The more your dog is exposed to dogs, people, and things, the more comfortable he will be, and far less likely to attack.
If you have a live puppy or dog training school in the area, it might be a good idea to enroll. If your dog is already showing aggression, or if he has attacked another dog, you need to find a trainer that specializes in such behavior and take the necessary precautions to ensure he doesn’t have an opportunity to do it again.
Utilize a Dog Safety Muzzle to Avoid Injury
In some cases, a dog safety muzzle might be needed depending on the situation. Muzzles can be especially helpful in the early stages of trying to turn an aggressive dog around.
Another angle that you can use is to try and walk your dog with another dog. Walking with another dog will get him used to the presence of another animal, as well as show your dog that there is no real fear. After doing this a few times, you could attempt a “meet and greet” to see how dog will respond but make sure that he is kept on a lead and the other dog as well. If you a still uncomfortable utilize the muzzle.
Unlike other dog behavior problems, aggressive dogs can be a major threat to safety. Aside from getting into fights, they get hit by cars, bite people, and run the real risk of being put down. Based on these things, training to alleviate this problem should be taken very seriously.
Get Professional Help If Needed…
If you are having a problem training a dog that is showing too much aggression, there are some courses geared around dog aggression that can be used easily from home.
