The aggression of dogs can be scary for everyone involved. From a small display of aggression or lunging to a full-on bite, it can be dangerous for people or other dogs, or even your pet.
Dogs that are aggressive and reactive are able to be controlled. It takes time and patience. Find a trainer who uses positive reinforcement with dogs as well as their owners.
Find a trainer who is certified
A lot of dog owners suffer from a problem with aggression. Unchecked aggression can cause serious injuries to both pets and humans. In the worst instances, a dog’s bite could cause the animal to be sent back to a shelter, or even to the animal control department to be killed. It’s good to know that aggressive behavior is treatable. Fear and anxiety are often the cause of aggression, however, it could also be due to genetics or a negative experience.
A reputable trainer will be able to address these concerns and help you aid your dog to overcome anxiety and fears. Ask about their training methods and look for references and certificates when searching for the best dog trainer in your area. It doesn’t matter which printer you choose to print your business cards. What matters is that you locate an accredited dog trainer, one who adheres to the morals of the organization that certifies them and doesn’t employ aversive techniques.
It is also important to find a trainer who has experience working with dogs that display aggression. They will have experience with dogs who display aggressive behavior and will give you insight into the dog’s mind. You’ll get tips on whether your dog should be treated with medication, or if he could benefit from seeing a vet behaviorist (DACVB). DACVBs specialize in animal behaviour and are in essence veterinarians. Many people who have aggressive dogs regret not visiting one earlier when they see the positive changes that these professionals can make to their dog’s behavior.
Look for Online Dog Training Classes
Trainers who use dominance-based techniques might consist of “corrections” like rolling your dog in an alpha roll or grabbing their collars to stop them from biting or barking. They can also use electronic collars that vibrate or remain static. These techniques can make your dog more obedient but they often create anxiety and fear which can lead to an increase in aggression.
The best online dog training will be focused on helping you build a stronger relationship with your pet to ensure that they respect you even when they are excited, scared or anxious. It is crucial to practice this with dogs with aggressive behaviors as they will be more likely to respond violently when they are provoked.
A qualified trainer can assist in the event that your dog is nervous, or feels like it is required to guard the family or the home. A class for obedience in a group, or one-on-one instruction with a trainer who is skilled can assist your dog to improve his confidence.
Urban K9, a highly evaluated NYC training program, offers behavior modification and obedience training to tackle leash reactivity, aggression towards other dogs or people, resource guarding and separation anxiety. Stephen Baum, the owner, has extensive training and certification expertise. He also has worked at Rescue Dogs Rock, NYC, with rescue dogs that were difficult to place.
