Helping Dogs Recover From Abuse and Fighting

Dogs with a history of abuse or fighting may need special care and work to become safely socialized and trained pets. Make sure your dog receives full veterinary care for any physical injuries or problems stemming from abuse or fighting. Perhaps the trickier problems to solve are the emotional and behavioral effects of an abusive background. The good news is that most dogs are very eager to please and get along with their owners. With careful and consistent work, it is never too late for a dog to learn safe and appropriate behaviors.

  1. Consistency

    • Establish a consistent set of expectations for your dog. These expectations should be agreed upon by every person who has a regular part in caring for or interacting with the dog. For example, you might establish the rule that your dog is not allowed to jump up on people who live in or visit your home. Other common rules, designed to minimize human anxiety about a dog perceived as aggressive, include dogs not being allowed beyond a certain area of the home, for example the ground level. Some dog owners do not allow their dog to bark for any extended period of time or, for example, more than once or twice at any time. If there is any history of a dog biting people, a good rule is that the dog is never allowed to make face-to-face contact, such as licking or "kissing," with a human. Make sure that whatever rules are agreed upon in your home are enforced by all the people living with the dog.

    Overcompensation

    • Naturally, you will feel tremendous pity for a dog with a difficult background. However, it is important you don't let this type of emotion lead you to overcompensating or coddling your dog. For example, anxious dogs may bark incessantly. If you rush to cuddle a barking dog, reassuring him that it's OK because you're there, you are reinforcing the barking behavior. In other words, you are teaching your dog that by making a fuss and barking, he will be rewarded with love and reassurance.

    Behavioral Management

    • When your dog engages in undesirable behaviors, such as barking, growling or biting, you must stop these behaviors consistently and immediately. Let your dog know that these behaviors are unacceptable simply by telling him firmly "No!" or squirting him with a water pistol. Withhold whatever your dog likes the most, such as food or your affection, for the short duration of time the dog is carrying out the undesirable behavior. Try to redirect his attention to a more appropriate activity. Do not shout at, hit, smack or otherwise physically punish your dog for inappropriate behaviors, as this runs the risk of escalating violence if your dog bites back.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • A dog from an abusive background may have issues with fear and anxiety, which impact his daily life. You can help him recover by offering lots of positive reinforcement throughout the day. Often, we focus on the negative behaviors that demand and receive immediate attention. It's just as important to praise your dog every time he is well-behaved or learns a new skill. For example, if your dog has had problems with house-training, give her tons of praise, love and perhaps food treats every time she does her business outside successfully. If your dog is sitting quietly and not jumping up or barking, tell him how good he is and provide his favorite reward, such as cuddles or treats. With kind and consistent rewards, and a steady schedule the dog can learn, most animals can recover well from their past experiences.