How to Calm an Aggressive Service Dog

Service dogs are dogs that are trained to assist persons with disabilities, such as the visually impaired. However, like any other dog a service dog can be aggressive. While it can take time to correct the problem in the long term, there are methods you can use to calm the dog down in the short term while that training takes effect.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what it is that makes your service dog aggressive. Dogs that are dog-aggressive will become aggressive when confronted by other dogs for instance. Dogs that are owner-aggressive will only become worked up when people approach the owner (police dogs may have this problem).

    • 2

      Speak soothingly to your dog, but keep authority in your voice. Dogs are pack animals, and they have to know that you are the alpha and that you have authority. A combination of kindness and command will often remind your dog that it has to follow you, even when aggressive.

    • 3

      Soothe your dog by touch. Touching the scruff of the neck and keeping your hand on the dog's throat or flanks reassures it that you're there, and if you are calm it can help translate some of that calm to your dog.

    • 4

      Tie your dog's leash to a tree, pole or other stationary place. This is the canine equivalent of time out. If your service dog is getting aggressive then you need to take it away from the situation and calm it down.