Aggressive dogs can bite humans at any time for any reason. If it's your dog, it's important to take action immediately because aggressive behavior usually just gets worse if nothing is done to correct the problem. A dog that is known to bite humans is dangerous and can cause serious legal problems for its owner. . While there are many possible reasons for aggressive dog behavior, the following steps can help address the problem.
Instructions
Consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions that might be contributing to the dog's aggressive behavior.
Seek help. Consult a professional such as a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT). Dog aggression behavior will not go away on it's own.
Understand that you are responsible for your dog's actions. Consider purchasing liability insurance. Keep your dog up to date on vaccinations and understand the laws. Leash laws exist to protect animals and people. Contact your local animal control officer or local humane society for more information on laws that apply in your area.
Evaluate your dogs aggression for reasons why it bites. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests to take notes: "When and where did it happen? What else was going on at the time? What had just happened or was about to happen to your dog? What seemed to stop her aggression? Learning the answers to these questions can clarify the circumstances that trigger your dog's aggressive reaction and provide insight into the reasons for her behavior." There are many types of dog aggression. You need to determine what type you are dealing with in order to fix the problem.
Supervise your dog to ensure the safety of people and other animals. If your dog bites a human it may also bite another animal. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends, "Avoid exposing your dog to situations where he is more likely to show aggression. You may need to keep him confined to a safe room and limit his contact with people." If you must take your dog out in public, consider using a muzzle.
Spay/neuter your dog. According to the Humane Society, "Intact dogs are more likely to display dominance, territorial, and protective aggressive behavior."
Don't provoke your dog. Play fighting tells them it's okay to bite. Replace activities that involve physical contact with games such as fetch.
Don't punish the dog. This could make the problem worse. According to the Humane Society, "If the aggression is motivated by fear, punishment will make your dog more fearful, and therefore more aggressive. Attempting to punish or dominate a dominantly aggressive dog may actually lead him to escalate his behavior to retain his dominant position."