Is training an aggressive dog possible? Yes. Aggression in dogs, whether it be toward a dog's owner or other dogs, is a serious behavior that should be adjusted with the help of a professional dog trainer. Of course you can work on basic training in your home, but serious effort will need to be taken to first identify what in your dog's environment makes him aggressive and then take steps to change your pup's behavior.
Aggression in Dogs: The Warning Signs
Aggression is a term that is used to explain multiple dog behaviors. Usually aggressive behavior will start as a warning, but eventually it may lead to an attack, which is why training an aggressive dog is so important.
Here are some ways a dog may exhibit aggressive behavior:
- Growling
- Standing rigid and/or still
- Showing teeth
- Snarling (growling while showing teeth)
- A threatening or guttural bark
- Lunging or charging at a human
- Mouthing/light biting without applying pressure
- Snapping or nipping at a person without leaving a mark
- Biting that causes bruising or puncture wounds
- Repeated bites in rapid succession
Reasons Dogs May Show Signs of Aggression
There are many reasons dogs lash out. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that dogs fall into one of the following categories of aggression:
- Territorial
- Possessive
- Protective
- Fearful
- Unsocialized
- Defensive
- Experiencing pain
Aggression can manifest for a number of different reasons, but many are due to environmental factors. If you adopted your dog from a shelter, he may have been abused and certain triggers could set him off. This is why letting him know that he is loved and creating a safe environment for him are so important.
If your dog is acting hostile after getting hurt, he is most likely experiencing pain and when the pain is relieved, the aggression will go away. Be cognizant of this–while you want to do everything to help him, trying to alleviate his pain may cause more discomfort for him and cause him to lash out. If this ends up being the case, you should call your veterinarian immediately about how to properly bring him in for examination.
A territorial dog may show signs of aggression when another human or animal approaches the item he feels possessive of, such as a toy or even his favorite human. In this case, your dog will need to be trained to respect boundaries and that protection is unnecessary. This one is a little more tricky because it is more of an innate sense of aggression, but it can sometimes be brought on by a certain upbringing. If your dog is used to having all the toys in his home to himself, a new pup in the house might upset that balance and cause him to get defensive. If this is the case, work slowly to introduce him to the new changes slowly so that he can get used to the idea over time, rather than right away.
Once you are able to identify why your dog is acting aggressively, you'll be better able to personalize his training. Similarly, you may be able to remove or change his environment.
Tasty Tips
How to Train an Aggressive Dog
The first step to training an aggressive dog is to identify who he is aggressive toward. Does your dog show signs of aggression to a particular family member or friend, strangers, or other animals? Also, as mentioned above, it's important to find out what in his environment is making him angry.
Once you're aware of what causes your dog's aggression and to whom he is aggressive, it's time to work one-on-one with a professional dog trainer. If you aren't sure who to hire, contact your veterinarian for a recommendation. Also, according to the ASPCA, "Some aggressive dogs behave the way they do because of a medical condition or complication." Before you start any training, check with your vet to make sure your dog is healthy. A visit may help you identify any underlying health issues that may be causing your pet's demeanor.
Never Ignore Aggression
This can be a good tip for a couple of reasons. The obvious one is that aggression is an undesirable trait that could lead to someone, or even your dog, getting hurt. If you notice aggression in a dog that you don't know, it is best to leave it alone. If these traits are being exhibited by your own dog is necessary to ensure you find out why, so you can take steps to reduce his aggression.
The other reason for not ignoring aggression could be of vital importance to your safety. As your pack leader, your dog will have a natural defensive mechanism to keep you safe from anything it deems as a threat. If you notice any of the signs of aggression in your normally tame dog it might be worth a quick investigation of your surroundings. Your dog's sense of smell and hearing are much greater than humans', so they will be able to recognize danger much quicker. Whether it is an intruder in your home or a wild animal in the vicinity, your dog's aggression signs could actually just be a sign of warning for whatever danger exists to stay away.
Lastly, never punish your dog for aggression. Dogs don't understand punishment and thus are more likely to act out or act more aggressive when punishment is used. Instead, the best way to train away aggressive behavior is to reward good behavior. Sometimes your dog may need a little reminder that you are in charge, but ultimately he will respond best to reconditioning through reward-based training.
Much like children, dogs need to be conditioned to not act out. Consistent aggressive behavior is usually symptomatic of a larger issue that needs to be identified so you can change it in his environment. Once you identify his trigger, you can work with him, as well as a vet or trainer to help you both learn how to reduce his aggression. A little bit of love and patience can go a long way in helping him become more docile.
Related products
Adult Small Bites Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Adult with Beef & Barley Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep Adult dogs active and healthy
Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Related articles
Your Overweight Dog: When Bigger Isn't Better
Extra pounds can cause problems for your dog's overall health. Learn the signs that your dog might be overweight, and what you can do to manage its weight.
Choosing the Right Food For Your Small Dog's Life Stages
As small and toy breed dogs age, their nutritional needs change.
The Advantages of Wet Dog Food
Learn how today's wet dog food blends have gotten a face lift, and how you'll provide your dog the nutrition he needs in the form he loves.
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Selecting the right food for your puppy is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life., Learn more about how to select the right puppy food.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.