How to Stop My Puppy From Being Aggressive With Other Dogs

Puppies are adorable and a lot of fun, but if you have noticed aggressive behavior in your puppy, then it must be dealt with quickly before it becomes a serious problem. How adult dogs behave is mainly due to their training as a puppy and their genetics. If you get a dog when it is very young, you will be able to train him when he is at his most susceptible. If you train a puppy well, you can overcome even the most difficult of genetic traits.

Things You'll Need

  • Check or chain collar
  • Lead
  • Muzzle
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Instructions

  1. Socializing Your Puppy

    • 1

      Socialize your puppy from the day that he gets his shots. The more that your puppy is around people and other dogs, the less likely he will be to show aggressive behavior as he grows up. Most training institutions have special socialization classes. If your puppy is showing signs of aggression, you will have a professional instructor available to help.

    • 2

      Consider putting a muzzle on your puppy. This will prevent any potential fights with other dogs.

    • 3

      Ensure that your puppy is always on a leash with a check or choke collar to prevent any dangerous situations. When you encounter another dog, keep a distance of 6 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters).

    • 4

      Make your puppy sit by your side before going any closer to the other dog. Tug lightly on the check or chain collar if any signs of aggression are shown. Praise him if he is obedient.

    • 5

      Let your puppy sniff the other dog if he is relaxed. If any aggression occurs, walk him the other way.

    • 6

      Say 'no' the first time that your puppy shows any signs of aggressive behavior such as growling when he sees another dog. Make sure to give positive affirmations when he remains quiet by petting him and giving him a treat. This will ensure that he knows that by being good he will be rewarded.

    • 7

      Play games with your puppy that do not encourage aggressive behavior, such as fetch and running. Games such as tug-of-war encourage aggression as they promote competition and fighting instincts with other dogs, as well as humans.

    • 8

      Neuter your puppy, especially if male. Hormones can increase aggression quite dramatically, especially when puppies reach 6 months of age.

    Food Aggression

    • 9

      Feed your dogs at different times. Your puppy will probably be used to competing for food with his brothers and sisters, so you need to teach him that his bowl is just for him.

    • 10

      Teach your puppy that food guarding is wrong. Dogs who are aggressive around their food can bite people or other animals. If your puppy is showing guarding signs around his bowl, approach him with a small treat in your hand and take away the bowl. Repeat this at every meal time.

    • 11

      Give another dog a treat while your puppy waits for his turn. If he snaps, you must say 'no.' If he sits patiently, reward him with a treat.