Dog aggression can be extremely frightening for all who is involved. From a minor display of anger or a snarl to a full-on bite, it can cause harm to people or other dogs, and even your own pet.
It is possible to train reactive and aggressive dogs. It requires patience and time. Choose a trainer that uses positive reinforcement for both the dogs and their owners.
Find a trainer who is certified
Aggression is a big problem for many dog owners. Inadequately handled aggression can result in serious injuries to both humans and dogs. In the worst cases the bite of a dog could lead to the animal being taken back to a shelter, or even to an animal control department for euthanasia. It’s important to understand that aggressive behavior is treatable. The reason for aggression is usually anxiety and fear, but it may also be genetically connected or triggered by a negative previous experience.
A reputable dog trainer will aid you to overcome your dog’s anxieties and fears by addressing these concerns. Ask about their training methods as well as look for references and certificates when searching for the best dog trainer within your local area. It doesn’t matter the person who prints your business cards. What matters is that you find an accredited dog trainer, one who abides by the ethics of their certifying organization and does not use aversive techniques.
It is equally important to select a trainer that has worked with dogs who exhibit aggression. They have worked dealing with dogs that have aggressive behaviors and provide insight into the dog’s thoughts. They can give you some advice about whether your dog requires medication or might be able to benefit from seeing a vet behavioral specialist (DACVB). DACVBs are experts in animal behavior and are basically veterinarians. Many people who have aggressive dogs regret not visiting one earlier when they see the improvements that these experts can bring to their dog’s behaviour.
Search for online dog training
Certain trainers are reliant on dominance-based training techniques that can be used to issue “corrections” like rolling your dog on their back in an alpha roll, holding the collar to prevent their barking or biting, and using electronic static collars or vibrating collars. These methods may initially help your dog become more loyal but they often create 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, so that they will obey you when they’re excited, afraid or stressed. It is important to develop this kind of relationship for dogs who have aggressive behavior as they will be more likely to be violently reactive to triggers.
A trained trainer can be helpful when your dog is anxious or thinks it must protect its family or home. Involving your dog in a group obedience class or working with a trained trainer can aid your dog to become more confident and decrease their aggression towards others.
Urban K9 is a highly-rated NYC training program that offers behavior modification and obedience classes to address leash reactivity, aggression toward other dogs or humans resources separation anxiety, and more serious behavior issues. Owner Stephen Baum has extensive credentials and training experience, which includes E-collar training. He has also worked hard to find rescue dogs in Rescue Dogs Rock in NYC.