Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs

For some dogs, simply saying "bad dog" may not be the most efficient way to keep them in line. Dogs that exhibit aggressive behavior present their own special set of challenges to owners. However, if owners and trainers keep a few things in mind when dealing with aggressive dogs, they better their chances of turning that snarl into an eager and content tail wag.

  1. Safety

    • While aggressive does not always equal dangerous, dogs can be dangerous animals under the right circumstances. Training Dogs recommends putting safety first when trying to correct aggressive behavior in dogs. Crate training dogs may be the best way to achieve this so that there is a barrier between dog and trainer. In the case of multiple dogs, separating dogs into different rooms may be key in the beginning of training.

    Finding the Problem

    • Before you can correct dog aggression, you must first understand the root of the problem. According to Dog Training Classroom, some animals, such as pit bulls and dobermans, are naturally prone to aggressive behavior. Other dogs can have triggers particular to them. Training Dogs recommends keeping a log in order to write notes on the dog's behavior for future reference. Doing this can help dog owners notice trends in their dog's behavior. Recognizing whether your dog has dominance aggression, possessive aggression or fear-motivated aggression problems can help you remedy the problem faster.

    Exercise

    • Professional dog trainer and television personality Cesar Millan often states that exercise is important to all dog training. According to Millan, most behavioral problems in aggressive dogs stems from a lack of exercise. Millan states that exercise and activity helps to burn a dog's energy so it can maintain a "healthy state of mind." According to Training Dogs, tired dogs are less likely to misbehave. They state that if the aggression comes out during exercise or walks, halting leashes or quiet areas away from traffic or over-stimulation may be in order.

    Preventative Training

    • Preventative training can be an effective method of curbing a dogs aggressive behavior, according to Dog Training Classroom. Using "time outs" can help a dog understand the behavior you deem undesirable. Saying "no" and leaving your dog in a crate or room alone for just under a minute can send a resounding message. Preventative measures can also be incorporated during play. Dog Training Classroom states that owners should refrain from behavior during play that inadvertently encourages aggression, such as playing tug-of-war with dogs that are already aggressive.

    Counter-Conditioning

    • Dog Training Classroom recommends counter-conditioning when dealing with aggressive dogs. Dog trainers use this technique because it actually changes the way dogs feel about their aggressive triggers. If a dog growls or barks at another dog or person, giving them a treat when they immediately get around the aggression trigger can change their attitudes in the future. Dog Training Classroom states that with enough repetition, the dogs behavior around other dogs and people will become the pleasure they associate with treats.