Whether you have an aggressive pup or fully grown dog if it is aggressive you need to tackle the problem immediately.
Unfortunately is really common among dogs and is the main reason a lot of dog owners seek professional help.
Signs of an Aggressive Dog
An aggressive dog will show dominance. This will normally come out as staring, Growling, Barking, Snapping, Standing in a dominant position with its ears pinned back and a stiff or tale that is is still or moving side to side. If your dog is showing these signs then be wary as they won't give a warning before biting.
What can Cause a Dog to Become Aggressive
If a dog has not shown aggression before then the reasons could be an illness or decease. Common illnesses that cause a dog to be aggressive are rabies, Brain tumours and thyroid decease to name a few. Previous physical abuse can also trigger this reaction and is very common among rescue dogs that will typical exhibit this behaviour later on once they have settled into their surroundings.
Dogs are naturally territorial and look to mark their territory and protect it at all costs. If you have a dominant breed or the alpha male of the litter then you will find the dog is naturally a lot rougher than his brothers and sisters and very confident.
Can Aggression be Cured ?
When it comes to puppies aggression can be cured with proper exercise and discipline. When you bring the puppy home for the first time try and take them on a long walk to tired them out, When you enter into your garden or home make sure you enter first and slowly introduce your puppy to the other rooms with you always walking in first, This is your way of welcoming them into your home the correct way. When you discipline your puppy remain calm and assertive in your posture and your voice, Imagine a parent or teacher telling a child off, You need to have the same approach. As much as you want to spoil them and give them treats you need to remember that the behaviours and actions you instil in them now will be with them when they are full grown so you need to build your relationship on solid foundations.
With full grown dogs it is not always possible to completely eliminate aggression but it can be reduced significantly. Without putting yourself at risk try and record what triggers your dog's aggression, Is it down to territory, Protection of its food, Fear of another person or dog. Whatever the reason you need to investigate and enlist the help of a professional if you don't know what your doing as you can cause more harm than good.
Remember to exercise your dog on a regular basis and stimulate its brain as a lot of the time aggression is down to a lack of exercise and lack of discipline. Check out some fun brain games here and click here to learn to how to develop your dogs intelligence and eliminate aggression.
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