Aggression between dogs can be a nightmare for everyone involved. It could range from a small gesture of aggression to an entire bite.
The aggressive and reactive dogs are able to be controlled. But it requires time and patience. Find a trainer who uses positive reinforcement with dogs as well as their owners.
Find a trainer who is certified
Many dog owners experience an issue with aggression. If left unchecked the behavior can cause serious injuries for both people and dogs, and in severe cases, even a bite that could land the dog back in a shelter or even at the animal control center for euthanasia. There is good news that aggression can be dealt with. Anxiety and fear are typically the cause of aggression, however, it could be triggered by genes or a negative experience.
A reputable trainer will be able to address these issues and help you help your dog overcome his anxieties and fears. When you’re looking for a local dog trainer near you, look for certifications and references, and ask about their training techniques. While anyone is able to print business cards, it is crucial to find a trainer who follows the ethics declaration of their certifying body and does not use abrasive methods of training.
You must also seek out an instructor who has experience working with aggressive dogs. If they have dealt with this kind of behavior previously they’ll be able to provide you with an idea of what could be going on in the dog’s head and the best method to train him. You’ll get guidance on whether your dog should be treated with medication or if it would be better off seeing a veterinarian behavior specialist (DACVB). DACVBs are veterinarians who specialize in animal behavior, and many people with aggressive dogs later regret not seeing one sooner because they see the huge improvement these specialists can bring in their dog’s behavior.
Look for Online Dog Training Classes
The methods used by trainers who focus on dominance could consist of “corrections” such as rolling your dog with an alpha roll or grasping their collars in order to prevent them from barking or biting. They may also utilize electronic collars that move or are static. While these methods may initially help your dog become more loyal, they can cause anxiety and fear and can increase aggression.
The best online dog training will focus on helping you develop more trust with your pet, so that they will obey even when they’re anxious, scared, or stressed. This is particularly important for dogs with aggressive behaviors because they tend to get angry and lash out when they are confronted by these triggers.
A qualified trainer can assist in the event that your dog is nervous or thinks it has to protect the family or the home. Participating in a group obedience class or working with a skilled trainer will assist your dog in becoming more confident and decrease their aggression towards other dogs.
Urban K9, a highly evaluated NYC training center, provides behavior modification and training in obedience to address leash reactivity and aggression towards other dogs and people as well as resource guarding and separation anxiety. Stephen Baum, the owner has extensive training and certification expertise. He also worked at Rescue Dogs Rock, NYC and with dogs who were difficult to place.