Even the calmest of dogs has the propensity of being really aggressive and unruly if it (or its nose) is rubbed the wrong way. Owners and handlers should ensure these steps are taken to develop emotionally stable dog behavior.
Prevention is always better than cure, and an obvious step to take in handling an aggressive dog is to watch for signs of hostility. If your dog is emitting low growls, tensing up or not wagging its tail, it is sending up a red flag and its behavior needs dealing with. In addition, its ears may flatten and its hairs may stand. Further, it may tilt its head in the direction of the source of the aggression. Recognizing the warning signs it displays is a first step in controlling canine aggression.
Safety always comes first when controlling an aggressive canine. If you own a dog with a propensity for aggression, make sure that it is taken out only when it has a muzzle on. If you wish to give your dog a little freedom from the muzzle, ensure that it is not reacting aggressively to its surroundings. When it shows that it can react properly to stimuli, the muzzle can be removed accordingly.
Let your dog interact as much as it can with other dogs, especially when it is a puppy. Familiarity, in the case of dogs, does not breed contempt. With other dogs which are exhibiting calm behavior, an aggressive dog will be more likely to tone down. Keep your dog on a short leash; this allows you to pull back when it lunges at another dog. Say “no” firmly and calmly when aggressive behavior is observed.
Train your dog to be in the “sit” or “stay” position when seeing another person approaching. Reinforcing the “stay” command with your dog helps it remember that it must behave in a pleasant way to people whenever they approach. Use praise liberally when your dog shows that it knows how to sit or stay. This provides positive association towards both the command and people the dog may come in contact with.
Always watch your own reaction when a dog is hostile. If you show that you are in a frenzy when your dog is aggressive, it picks up vibes from you and will tend to be even more excited than it already is. Maintaining calm assertiveness is the key in combating dog aggression.
Get a gentle but firm lead for your dog. The dog will not have any negative association with it and love its walks. If it likes the leash, it heightens the enjoyment of going out for walks. A happy dog is a calm dog.
Dog aggression may be a problem, but it certainly can be controlled. With the right steps in place, you and your canine can have longer, more pleasant walks
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