How To Stop Your Dog's Aggressive Behavior

There is a saying that goes something like "if dogs could talk we would have the same trouble getting along with them as we do with other people" This somewhat amusing statement aptly illustrates the fact that, like people, each dog has a personality of its own. Some dogs are naturally more aggressive than others. Some are quicker on the uptake, whilst others are slower to learn, requiring extra patience during training.

Now, although some dogs have a greater tendency to aggression, this is normally made worse in households that, wittingly or unwittingly, encourage the development of the dog's aggressive behaviour. Biting unwelcome visitors to your house may be justifiable, but biting the postman or other members of your family or public is certainly not acceptable. As a dog owner it is therefore very important that you understand the factors at play when your dog's aggression manifests itself, in order that you may take the necessary steps to prevent it.

There are essentially three types of aggressive behavior in dogs, namely Dominance, Possessive and Territorial

Dominance and Possessive Aggression

These are the most common reasons why dogs growl at and/or bite their owners. This type of behaviour is almost always a result of the dog's interaction with its environment and owners. It is essentially the dog challenging the owner for the alpha position. If a dog is showing this type of behaviour, then he has to be put in his place, and that does not necessarily mean the use of punishment or violence as this could make matters worse. Taking the following actions should enable the owner to reassert his or her position as the alpha leader in the relationship.

1. Eat your meals before your dog

2. Go through doorways first, ahead of your dog

3. Do not let your dog win in games of strength

4. Enforce your house rules consistently, letting him know that he has rules to follow.

Territorial Aggression

This is displayed by dogs that are fiercely overprotective. This problem can be prevented by socializing a dog whilst he's young to break down his suspicion of strangers. A dog should be exposed to different people and different environments. That way the dog will realise that people are harmless and his territorial aggressiveness will reduce naturally. If one is unsure of a dog's behavior when he is taken out in public, then the dog should be put on a leash, and a muzzle if necessary. This is not only to safe guard the general public but also the dog itself.

Lastly, one should always remember that dog aggression is a serious problem that needs to be dealt with immediately. More often than not, dogs that bite and injure someone are put down without question, and the owners can find themselves facing the full weight of the law. Therefore, if you feel you are losing control of your dog then you should seek professional help immediately. However, this should not be necessary if the owner is sensitive the fact that, like people, dogs have different personalities and makes sure the dog is given effective obedience training from an early age.

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