Dog aggression can be extremely frightening for all involved. It could vary from a tiny display of aggression to a full on bite.

It is possible to train reactive and aggressive dogs. It takes patience and time. Find a dog trainer that uses positive reinforcement for both the dog and its owner.

Find a trainer who is certified

Many dog owners experience a problem with aggression. If not taken care of it could result in serious injuries for both people and pets as well as, in extreme cases there is even a bite that can result in the dog being in a shelter, or at animal control to be killed. It’s important to understand that aggressive behavior can be treated. Aggression often stems from fear and anxiety, but it may also be genetically connected or caused by a bad previous experience.

A skilled trainer will tackle these concerns and will work with you to aid your dog to overcome anxiety and fears. Learn about their training techniques as well as look for references and credentials when looking for an instructor for your dog in your area. While anyone can make business cards, it’s crucial to find a trainer who follows the ethics statement of their certifying body and does not use abrasive methods of training.

It is also essential to find a trainer who has worked with dogs who exhibit aggression. They’ll have experience working with dogs that display aggressive behavior and will provide insight into the dog’s thoughts. They can offer some guidance on the need for medication or would be able to benefit from seeing a vet behavioral expert (DACVB). DACVBs are essentially vets that specialize in animal behavior, and many owners of aggressive dogs later regret not seeking one earlier because they can see the vast improvement these specialists can bring in their dog’s behavior.

Find online aggressive dog training classes

Some trainers rely on dominance-based training techniques that can include issuing “corrections” like putting your dog on their back in an alpha roll, grabbing the collar to keep them from barking or biting, and using electronic static or vibrating collars. These techniques can increase the obedience of your dog but they often cause anxiety and fear, which, in turn, can cause aggression.

The best online dog training will concentrate on helping you develop an improved relationship with your pet to ensure that they obey you even when they’re excited, scared or stressed. It is crucial to develop this kind of relationship for dogs with aggressive behaviors because they are more likely to be violently reactive to triggers.

Many owners find that their dogs who are aggressive are anxious or feel that they must protect their home or family members, which can also be addressed by a skilled trainer. A group obedience class or one-on-one training with a trainer that is experienced can help your dog gain confidence.

Urban K9, a highly reviewed NYC training program, provides behavior modification and training in obedience to address leash reactivity and aggression towards other dogs and people, resource guarding and separation anxiety. Owner Stephen Baum has extensive credentials and training experience, including E-collar training. He has also worked hard to find the dogs in rescue in Rescue Dogs Rock in NYC.