How to Handle an Aggressive Dog

Encountering an aggressive dog can be scary. There are many causes of aggression, and unfortunately a dog cannot communicate the reason for his condition. If you encounter a rowdy canine, the following steps will help to handle the situation and limit the risk of getting hurt.

Things You'll Need

  • Long leash (about 15 feet)
  • Training collar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Try to get to the bottom of what is spurring this dog's aggression. Is he passive aggressive? Is he reacting this way out of fear? Passive aggression usually surfaces if he is confined in a kennel, a crate or a run. When you go to get him out of that space, he will react because he feels cornered. A passive aggressive dog will usually relax once he is no longer confined. If he is aggressive out of that space towards people or animals, then that is a different problem. He may be poorly socialized, and not used to seeing other animals and humans. Or he could have been trained in protection work at some point in his life. Do your best to narrow this down by learning as much about his background as possible.

    • 2

      Learn to follow one simple rule with this dog, no matter what the source of her aggression. Never look her in the eye. This is like presenting a challenge. When you go to retrieve her and try to put a leash on her, do not make eye contact. Always keep her in your peripheral vision, so you will know if she is going to make an aggressive move.

    • 3

      Make your long leash into a noose to get this dog out of his kennel, or whatever area he is being held in. This way you keep your face and your hands away from his mouth. Just make the noose large enough, open the gate, let him walk into it and pull so it is snug. Again, if he is aggressive out of fear, he will usually calm down once he is out of a confined space.

    • 4

      Watch her closely around other dogs and people. If she is poorly socialized, she will continue to show aggression when she makes contact with any animals or humans that are unfamiliar. A training collar comes in handy here, provided she trusts you enough now as her handler to allow you to put one on her. This way when she shows aggression towards others, you can give that collar a very quick and firm "pop" to get her attention, and say "No." Work her often under these circumstances, showing her new animals and new people, and monitor her behavior. Just be sure you are always in control, so no one gets hurt.

    • 5

      Be prepared to seek out professional help. If you are not succeeding in easing this dog out of his aggression with the above steps, then you should find a trainer that has experience working with aggressive dogs.