Aggressive Behavior in Dogs Irrespective of whether you're a new dog owner or you've owned dogs for years, odds are you've encountered a number of pretty frightening pooches! There are numerous reasons for dog aggression. It may be due to a dominance related issue between you and the dog, or it could be a trigger that was never suitably handled from puppyhood - for example, an attack by a different dog. Whatever is causing your dog's aggression, you should deal with it as soon as possible. The results of long term dog aggression can be not only frightening, but dangerous if not swiftly taken to task. The Source of Aggressive Behavior in Dogs Dog aggression can start from the age of 6 weeks of age, a crucial age when a puppy should be socialized with other dogs and given the necessary training that keeps them from biting others. This period of socialization lasts until the dog turns 14 weeks old and can go on even further beyond that. This means a number of things. To start with, on no account take a puppy away from its litter before 8 weeks of age. Never use harsh discipline with the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and make sure the dog is very gently cared for in that time. Striking, yelling or other harsh punishments from a young age can breed aggressive behavior in dogs over time. A dog needs to have been properly socialized with people and other dogs by the time it reachs 14 weeks to avoid any possible dog aggression problems. Real dog aggression can be triggered by any number of things. Heredity and genetics are absolutely factors - certain breeds are generally more aggressive than others - however it is on no account a hard fast rule. Furthermore, dogs that have not been de-sexed or spayed are more prone to aggressive tendencies. By far, however, the most crucial factor in establishing aggressive behavior in dogs is their environment. A dog that has inadequate living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that has been frightened or attacked by another dog is far more likely to be aggressive as it ages. Dog aggression can intensify from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies tend to be the result of a dog testing for dominance. You will need to establish dominance from a young age and retain that position throughout the dog's adolescence to make sure it does not have a chance to take control of the household. Stopping and Controlling Aggressive Behavior in Dogs If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior after 14 months old, when it has reached sexual maturity, particularly after it has been altered, it is advisable to deal with the problem straight away. First, be sure you have established yourself as the pack leader or Alpha Dog. Don't reward dog aggression, even if your dog is scared (particularly in this case). Train your dog to respond to your commands, control feeding and walking times, and make sure your dog has a strong leader in the house. When you defer to your dog or allow it to take liberties in your house, it will eventually exhibit stronger aggression toward others. If your dog is defensive-aggressive, they may strike out at a person in fear. These dogs might not have been correctly socialized. Keep them away from young children (which they could perceive as direct threats) and go to a training session or behaviorist who can slowly acclimate your dog to a social environment. Aggressive behavior in dogs is a serious problem that many owners experience, but it can be controlled, even as your dog gets older. If your dog aggression ever advances to violence, consider using the services of a professional to intervene before someone gets hurt and your dog is held accountable.
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There's a lot of reasons for dog aggression. It could be due to a dominance related issue between you and the dog, or it might be a trigger that was never suitably dealt with from puppyhood - for instance, an attack by a different dog. Whatever is causing your dog's aggression, you have to attend to it as soon as possible. The results of long term dog aggression can be not only scary, but dangerous if not immediately taken to task. Learn the essentials to getting your dog's aggression under ...
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