Recent NewsAt Noah’s Too, we sometimes have to turn down customers for our doggie daycare program because their dog is aggressive toward other dogs. We screen all dogs before letting them play with other dogs to look for this trait. Dog aggression is a complex issue but there are several steps that can be taken to alleviate the problem. To curb aggressive behavior in your dog and to train him to be a better companion in general, it’s necessary to have a consistent training program that you can implement each day.Â
Here are some tips on dealing with your dog’s aggression. First, consult your veterinarian. If your dog has never shown any signs of aggression previously, but then suddenly begins growling, snapping at or biting people, talk to your vet. A sudden change in behavior can be a sign of an underlying medical problem such as a brain tumor. Once a medical condition is treated or controlled with medication, your pet’s behavior may go back to normal.
Determine if there are certain circumstances or triggers which cause your dog to act out. An important step in controlling aggressive behavior is figuring out the cause. Does your dog growl and snap when people approach his food bowl? Does your dog try to bite if his feet are touched? Does your dog growl at all other dogs, or just certain ones? Knowing what sets your dog off can help you decide the best course of action to take. In the meantime, you should strive to avoid putting your dog in a situation where he or she feels threatened and turns aggressive.
Find a trainer and work out a behavior modification training plan.  The staff at Noah’s Too can make recommendations to you. The professional can help you create a program using positive reinforcement training methods to begin alleviating the dog’s fears. For instance, if your dog growls at other dogs, you may need to find owners with calm, non-reactive dogs to practice walking your dog by and then giving them a treat. Your dog will begin to learn that when they see other dogs, good things happen for him. A trainer will have you slowly work up to approaching another dog. The starting point for exercises such as this depends on the degree of aggression your dog has exhibited. Medication may also be a part of the program to get rid of aggressive dog behavior.
Aggression is one of those behaviors that may never go away. It can be lessened, but once a dog exhibits those kinds of behaviors, it is really hard to change. The staff at Noah’s Too will help in any way they can so hopefully your dog can enjoy doggie daycare with all its benefits, too.
Tags: dog training, doggie daycare, pet ownership