How to Make Your Male Dog Less Aggressive

It is a natural instinct for a dog to want to assert his dominance over other dogs and the people around him. This is part of the pack mentality that dogs have in the wild. This becomes a problem when the desire to dominate turns to aggressive behavior. It can be worrisome thinking that your dog may attack another dog or a person. It is important to try and curb aggressive behavior immediately. There are several steps you can try at home that will help you minimize this behavior.

Things You'll Need

  • Corrective collar
  • Muzzle

Instructions

    • 1

      Have your male dog neutered at a young age. Neutered dogs are less aggressive. Neutering should be done before he reaches sexual maturity, sometime in the first year of life. If your dog has passed this point, then speak to your vet about the benefits of neutering specifically to help curb the aggressive behavior at this point. In addition, neutered dogs are less likely to wander, have less health problems and tend to listen better to their owners.

    • 2

      Assert your dominance. An aggressive male is trying to announce that he is the alpha male, or pack leader. This often means that he sees himself as more dominant than you. You must reassert your place in the "pack" by letting him know that you are in charge. Attend obedience classes with your dog, where a trained professional will show you how to convey to your dog that you truly are "the boss."

    • 3

      Use a corrective collar. A choke collar or pronged collar can help you maintain control over an overpowering dog. Some people feel that these collars are cruel, however, they exert pressure upon your dog̵7;s neck much the way his mother would have done when he was a puppy. She would do this to correct him, showing him she was in control. Make sure to never leave a corrective collar on your dog when he is alone.

    • 4

      Use a muzzle. When you place a muzzle on your dog, he is aware that he cannot use his teeth for offense or defense. This generally makes the dog less aggressive. Use a muzzle when you go for walks, and consider, temporarily, changing your walking route to avoid other dogs or a lot of people.