Dog Training Tips For Handling Aggressive Dog

An aggressive dog is a frightening animal, especially when the aggression takes you by surprise. But fortunately, in the majority of cases, canine aggression is fairly easy to deal with. With a proven method, almost all dogs can be 'cured' of their aggression.

Your first challenge is to remain calm, and not show any sign of fear. This is often harder that it sounds. Let's face it, anyone confronted by a wild animal will be afraid. And dogs are, after all, wolves at heart.

Nonetheless, you need to banish any fear, and take control of the situation. Keep in mind that dogs communicate by physical signals, so if you show that you are afraid you may unwittingly be fueling the dog's aggressive behavior.

Next you need to deal with the source of the aggressive behavior. Dogs do not just switch from passive to aggressive mode on a whim. There is almost always a trigger, and understanding what it is with help you bring your dog under control.

Here are some common forms of dog aggression;

* Dog on Dog Aggression - A dog that is aggressive towards other dogs is usually unsure of where he fits into the pack 'pecking order'. Obedience training can help, but you also need to show strong, consistent pack leadership.

* Aggression on the Leash - Some dogs start behaving aggressively the moment they are put on the lead. Often, it is because they are not walked regularly, so address that right away. However, make sure that you 'own' the walk. You control pace, stops and whether the dog is allowed to sniff around or not.

* Aggression towards Strangers - Dogs who becomes aggressive when confronted with someone they don't know, may be anxious or unsure of themselves. In most cases this is due to lack of proper socialization.

* Food Aggression - Food aggression is quite common. Often, even normally placid dogs become aggressive at meal times.

If the aggression is restricted to growling and posturing, simply supervising meals may help. On the other end of the aggression scale, you may end up having to feed your dogs in separate rooms.

* Random Aggression - This is the most difficult, and most dangerous, form of dog aggression to deal with - a dog who becomes aggressive without provocation or warning.

A medical, or even mental, problem may be the cause, so have the dog checked by your vet as soon as possible. If your vet finds nothing physically wrong with the dog, it is strongly advised that you speak to a professional dog trainer - preferably one with experience handling aggressive dogs.

Bear in mind that each of these situations is unique, and therefore requires a unique approach. But action is definitely required, because an aggressive dog, regardless of size, is a very dangerous animal.