Aggression between dogs can be frightening for all involved. From a slight show of aggression, or lunging, towards a full-on attack, it can cause harm to people as well as other dogs and even your own pet.
You can train reactive and aggressive dogs. It takes patience and time. Choose a trainer who utilizes positive reinforcement both for the dogs and owners.
Choose a dog trainer who is certified
Many dog owners have an issue with aggression. If it is not addressed it could result in serious injuries to people and dogs, and in severe cases the bite could land the dog back in a shelter or even at animal control for euthanasia. There is good news that aggression can be treated. Aggression often stems from anxiety and fear, but it can be inherited or triggered by a negative incident in the past.
A good dog trainer will assist you in overcoming your dog’s anxieties and fears through addressing these issues. When looking for a local dog trainer in your area, look for certifications and references, and inquire what their methods of training are. It doesn’t matter who prints your business cards. What is important is that you find a certified dog trainer, one who is in line with the ethics of their certification organization and doesn’t employ aversive methods.
It is also important to find a trainer who is familiar with working with dogs that display aggression. They’ll have experience working with dogs that display aggressive behavior and will provide insights into your dog’s thinking. You’ll get advice on whether or not your dog should be treated with medication or if he could be better off seeing a veterinarian behavior specialist (DACVB). DACVBs are veterinarians who are experts in the field of animal behavior and many owners of aggressive dogs later regret not seeing one sooner because they can see the vast improvement these specialists can bring on their dog’s behavior.
Search for online dog training
Certain trainers are reliant on methods of training based on dominance that be used to issue “corrections” like putting your dog’s back in the alpha roll, grabbing them by the collar to keep them from barking or biting and using electronic collars that vibrate or static. These methods may initially make your dog more obedient but they often cause anxiety and fear, which in turn can increase aggression.
A dog’s training program that is online and aggressive that is effective will assist you in building an even stronger bond with your pet, to ensure that they obey when they’re scared, excited 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 lot of people discover that their dog’s aggressive behavior is insecure or feel like they must protect their home or family, this can be handled by a skilled trainer. A group obedience class or one-on-one instruction with a trainer that is knowledgeable can aid your dog become more confident.
Urban K9 is a highly-rated NYC training program that offers obedience and behavior modification to tackle leash reactivity, aggression towards other dogs or humans, resource guarding separation anxiety, as well as more serious behavior issues. Stephen Baum, the owner, has extensive training and certification expertise. He has also been a part of Rescue Dogs Rock, NYC and with dogs who were difficult to place.