How to Diffuse Aggression in a Dog

Dog aggression should never be tolerated. Such aggression can cause harm to you as well as to other animals and people around you. Unfortunately, diffusing dog aggression isn't an easy fix, as it takes training and investigation as to why the dog behaves the way he does. There are, however, a number of ways in which you can diffuse your dog's aggression.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the situation in which your dog becomes aggressive. Dogs often become aggressive when others come near their food or toys, when they feel they are being threatened, when they are attempting to protect a person, or just when they feel you deserve a bite. Taking a step back and assessing the situation can help you to figure out how to diffuse the aggression.

    • 2

      Establish your dominance over the dog. Many cases of aggression stem from a dog's thinking it is the alpha leader in the pack or home. Because of this, he feels that he can act aggressively toward you and other members of the pack. Therefore, show your dog that you are the one in control by practicing a few exercises. Eat in front of your dog before he does, and then only let him eat after you have given him permission. Walk through doors and up and down stairs in front of your dog. Never lie or sit on the floor with your pet, as this puts the two of you on the same ground. In addition, never allow the dog to sleep in your bed, and if he is in your way, make him move aside instead of you. Once your dog understands you are the leader, the aggression will likely subside.

    • 3

      Neuter your male dog, if this has not already been done. The hormones that are running through an unneutered male dog can often cause him to become aggressive and hostile, especially toward other male dogs. Although this may not completely eliminate the aggression, it can certainly help. Check with your veterinarian for the appropriate age at which to neuter your dog.

    • 4

      Walk your dog daily. Providing exercise for your pooch can dispel some of that aggressive energy. In addition, it also provides an opportunity for you to exert your dominance. Keep your dog on a short leash next to you, never allowing him to walk ahead or to walk off and sniff without your permission. If your dog becomes aggressive toward another animal, tighten the leash and keep walking forward. Doing so shows your dog that you are controlling him and keeps his body---and mind---moving ahead and not focusing on the factor that triggered the aggression. Eventually, the dog will most likely stop the aggression while on your walks.

    • 5

      Prevent situations in which your dog becomes aggressive from occurring. For instance, if you dog doesn't like you to touch him or sit near him on the couch or doesn't like it when others come close to you while you are on the couch, do not allow him to jump on the couch in the first place.

    • 6

      Counter-condition the behavior. If your dog becomes aggressive during certain situations, such as when the doorbell rings or when someone comes near your home, distract him with a treat. Before the dog starts to show the aggression, give him a delicious treat, such as a piece of ham. Eventually, the dog will associate seeing the aggression trigger the food and will likely withhold it. Never give the treat after the aggression has started because you will be rewarding the dog for the aggressive behavior. In addition, attempting to feed an aggressive dog could result in injury.