CONTROLLING AGGRESSIVE AND UNWANTED BEHAVIOR IN DOGS

Aggression takes a variety of forms and responds to different methods of control. Dogs of the fighting breeds can sometimes be more aggressive than their even-tempered counterparts. If your dog is sensitive to the arrival of strangers he should be trained to distinguish between friendly or neutral strangers and those with hostile intentions. Dogs have a deeply ingrained territorial defensiveness. It requires special training to teach him whether you approve or disapprove of a stranger.

If your dog was not properly socialized with other dogs when he was young he may show signs of aggressive behavior to other dogs. If kept in restricted spaces with little to occupy him, he is likely to develop behavior difficulties and in extreme cases becoming destructive and aggressive.

Corrective measures to improving aggressive behavior:

Aggression behavior to owner
Command the dog to lie down so that he becomes subservient to you. Lift its hind leg to show your dominance. Alternatively you can command your dog to stay, standing over it and lifting its front legs off the ground. Finding the loss of control intimidating it will soon accept that you are in charge.

Aggression behavior to visitors
Gradually introduce your dog to strangers so that he doesn't get confused or bewildered. By bending down to touch the dog the stranger appears to be acting in a threatening way. Request the stranger to avoid eye contact with the dog and to avoid intimidating gestures. When approaching the dog offer a hand at face level and avoid reaching down from above using jerky movements. By sitting down and giving the dog a treat while restrained on its lead the stranger will appear less intimidating. Strangers should not force themselves on a hostile or confused dog. Allow the dog to set the pace.

Aggression behavior to other dogs
If your dog was not taught when young to tolerate other animals it will be hostile to other dogs. Command the dog to sit.Take control of the situation by making it appear less intimidating. Pretend to be unconcerned about the other dog. Consequently he will realize that the other dog pose no threat.

Should the above approach be inadequate request the advice of a professional trainer.