The escalating behavior between dogs can be a nightmare for everyone involved. From a slight show of aggression, or lunging, towards a full-on attack, it could cause harm to people as well as other dogs and even your own pet.
You can train reactive as well as aggressive dogs. However, it takes time and patience. Find a dog trainer who employs positive reinforcement for the dog and its owner.
Choose a dog trainer who is certified
Aggression is a major issue for a lot of pet owners. If not addressed, aggression can cause serious injuries to humans and dogs. In the worst instances, a dog’s bite could cause the animal to be taken back to a shelter, or even to the department of animal control for euthanasia. The good news is that aggressive behavior can be dealt with. Fear and anxiety are often the root of aggression but it may be triggered by genetics or a negative experience.
A reputable trainer will be able to address these issues and will work with you to aid your dog to overcome his fears and anxieties. When looking for a local dog trainer, look for certifications as well as references, and then inquire what their training methods are. Although anyone can make business cards, it is important to find a certified trainer who adheres to the ethics statement of their certifying body and doesn’t use any abrasive methods of training.
It is also important to find a trainer who has experience working with dogs that display aggression. If they have dealt with this kind of behavior previously they’ll be able to provide you with some insight into what might be happening in your dog’s brain and the best method to help him. They can offer some guidance on whether your dog needs medication or would be able to benefit from seeing a vet behavior specialist (DACVB). DACVBs specialize in animal behavior and are in essence veterinarians. Many owners of an aggressive dog regret not visiting one earlier when they see the changes these specialists can make to their dog’s behavior.
Find online aggressive dog training classes
Certain trainers are reliant on dominance-based training techniques that can be used to issue “corrections” like rolling your dog’s back with the alpha roll, grabbing them by the collar to stop them from barking or biting and using electronic static or vibrating collars. These techniques can make your dog more obedient but they tend to result in anxiety and fear which, in turn, can cause aggression.
The most effective online aggressive dog training will focus on helping you develop a stronger relationship with your pet so that they obey you even when they are anxious, scared or stressed. This is particularly important for dogs with aggressive behaviors because they are more likely to lash out when they are confronted by these triggers.
Many people find that their dog’s aggressive behavior is anxious or feel that they have to protect their family or home, that can be addressed by a skilled trainer. A group obedience class, or a one-on-one session with a trainer that is knowledgeable can aid your dog become more confident.
Urban K9, a highly reviewed NYC training program, provides behavior modification and obedience training to deal with leash reactivity and aggression towards other dogs or people as well as resource guarding and separation anxiety. The owner Stephen Baum has extensive credentials and training experience, which includes E-collar training. He has also worked hard to find the dogs in rescue at Rescue Dogs Rock in NYC.
