Handling Overly Aggressive Dogs – Some Dog Training Tips

If you have an overly aggressive dog, even one that usually acts shy, then you should know that it is extremely important that you begin training him in proper behavior. Don’t let his instincts run wild to the point where he might hurt another dog or a person. You want your family to feel safe around him. You don’t want to put your dog down some day because you didn’t train him. Here are four dog training tips that may help.

1. Training Sessions

Set up training sessions for your dog that are designed to build his confidence and sense of security. Most dogs have a fear of something. It might be meeting other people while out walking, loud children running around, or meeting up with other dogs. Because of this, you should create a controlled environment where you can ease these tensions. For example, you could arrange to have one of your friends come up to you while you are out walking your dog. Have your friend hand him a treat. This will give your dog a positive experience and help him become more comfortable.

2. Socialization

If your dog acts aggressive around other dogs, it might be because he feels uncomfortable and is unsure how to act. You should be able to change his behavior by showing him what type of behavior is acceptable and by letting him gradually get used to other dogs. Take him to a park or dog park where there will be other dogs milling about and let your dog just observe them while he remains on his leash. If he starts to make aggressive gestures, tug on his leash and say “No” in a firm voice so he understands he is misbehaving. Help him understand he is supposed to play nice with other dogs and he should do that once he feels comfortable in their presence.

3. Avoid Aggressive Adult Dogs

Whatever you do, don’t let your dog hang around with older aggressive dogs and pick up their bad habits. This is one of the top dog training tips. It’s just the same as with people. You don’t want your kids to hang around with the bad crowd. You want them to be with positive, successful and confident people and you want your dog to be around calm, happy and playful dogs.

4. Muzzle

Also in the top dog training tips is to use a muzzle on your dog while he is in training. Be sure to get him used to wearing it while he is around the house so it will not be a big deal for him to put it on when it is time for a lesson. The muzzle is merely a precaution for the safety of your dog and other dogs or people. It can be removed once he has made some progress.

These dog training tips can help you manage your overly aggressive dog and begin to change his behavior so he is more at ease with other dogs and people. It doesn’t take a lot of work but it does take consistency.

An overly aggressive dog can be trained just as easily as any other dog, especially dogs that act aggressively because they feel afraid or unsure of their surroundings. You’ll be glad you took the time to do some dog training with your dog. It will make him a better pet and family member.