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Dog Aggression |
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| Publisher: |
George Kane |
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2007-02-02 |
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Aggression in dogs is a serious behavioral condition owners face. However, the problem could be avoided if the owner is properly aware of dogs' life stages and the things that can lead to dog aggression. One million cases of reported dog bites are recorded each year but it only accounts for half of the cases because the other half go unreported. Most wounds from dog bites are not threatening. Unfortunatly children are bitten most often. Genes, heredity, and environment are major factors affecting dog aggression. Some breeds like Rottweilers and Akitas display belligerent behaviors while some breeds take softer roles like Retrievers. Mating related dogs can result in inconsistent attitudes in dogs and hormones can influence aggression between dogs of the same and opposite sexes. Another factor that contributes to behavioral aggression is environment. That includes the dog's state of living, socializing, excessive disciplining and unwarranted reinforcing from the owner etc. Furthermore, dogs instinctly live in packs. They occupy high or low social status. They see the people around them as part of the pack and they protect their status in the social rank by attacking the passive members of the family such as children. If dogs growl in defense of their bowls and they are not disciplined, the owners are giving the dogs an unwanted opportunity to develop such aggressive behavior over one of the family members or all of the family members. With time and without proper intervention from the owners, the dogs will surely establish their dominance in the social rank which includes the members of the family. Such dominant behavior will show when the dogs start to bite every time they start to see and feel that humans are a threat to their high social rank in the “pack”. Such dogs often end up at shelters, because their owners had, in reality, misunderstood their social behavior such as attacking without any definite purpose. Dogs may be aggressive because of fear, territory, other dogs (siblings, dogs of the same sex, and dogs of the opposite sex), medications, predation, possession, puppies, food, play, maternity, senility, and illness or injury. Dogs may show one or a combination of several kinds of aggression. Socializing dogs during their first 12 weeks of their life is a critical factor which is important to prevent dog aggression. Three to 16 weeks are the critical stages in dogs' growth because it is during these times that they learn to trust or mistrust. During these periods, they should be taught how to interact socially. As puppies, dogs should be exposed to humans especially children because if not, they will grow uncomfortable with the presence of people. Ensure your dogs' and children's safety. Children are bitten by dogs commonly in the face. Dogs reprimand their puppies by opening their mouths across the puppies' faces. Children love to hug and kiss dogs. Sometimes dogs get offended so as a result, they see children as offending puppies. Teach positive behavior like self-control to your dog. For instance, train him to keep still while you are preparing their food. Be mindful of what dogs learn everyday. Don't let them bark at people who pass by on bikes or to mailmen, repairmen, delivery people and strangers. Do not leave your dogs unattended while fettered out of the house. Take dogs inside of the house for the night. Choose solid fence over underground electronic fence. You also need to neuter your dogs.
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aggression dog dogs Dog Aggression Pets Home & Family |
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Related Article:Dog Aggression |
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Richard Cussons |
2008-04-16 |
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Title: When Your Weimaraner Is Aggressive
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Aggression in a Weimaraner has genetic factors. A Weimaraner is born with the potential to be aggressive being very territorial and aloof to strangers. Despite the reputation as excellent hunter and highly intelligent breed, that doesn't stop a Weimaraner from showing signs of aggression. According to canine behaviorist, aggression is an intent to intimidate or to attack a person or another animal. Aggression is often displayed in behaviors such as barking, growling, snapping, snarling, stiffening of the body and biting. Dogs don't just become aggressive without reason. Here are some reasons why a dog becomes aggressive: Genetic and hereditary - Very territorial breeds such as Weimaraners are more likely to become aggressive. The characteristic is passed on from generation to generation. A Weimaraner will protect or guard what he considered valuable resources- the home or the yard, his foods, toys and other valued objects. He may also show aggressive behavior to those, either animal or people, he perceives as threat or danger to his family or pack. Fear - A dog may become aggressive when he is afraid and believes that he must defend himself from danger of being harmed. For example, the vet needs to examine or roll him over, he might panic and bark because he believes that he must protect himself from what he perceived danger. Medical or physical ailments or a traumatic experience Lack of socialization Number one step in addressing canine aggression is to rule out its causes. Once you and your vet have already ruled out the causes, seek professional advice, say from animal behavior specialist, for behavioral modification and professional guidance. Before professional help comes, it is your responsibility as dog owner to prevent your Weimaraner from harming other people and animals. Keep him under close supervision while still in the process of treatment. As much as possible, limit his exposure to situations that may trigger his aggressive behavior. Avoid playing games such as wrestling or tug-of-war because these games can promote aggressive behavior. If a dog shows aggression to a certain family member, let that person become the main source of everything. Other family members must ignore the dog and provide no food, play or affection. Reward your dog for every sign of submissive behavior. Submissive behavior includes licking or lowering his head when being reached for. People who have aggressive dogs must always remember not to punish their dogs. Punishing your aggressive dog will do more harm than good. Richard Cussons loves dogs of all breeds. Learn more about Weimaraner at this site dedicated to Weimaraner dogs.
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Jason Witt |
2008-01-20 |
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Title: Grace Not Aggression-Fighting The Raging Urge
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When you receive the Seal you will fight the natural urge to be aggressive. New research shows that mice are rewarded by acting out aggression and that dopamine, a pleasure chemical in the brain, is involved. This study was published in the online version of the journal Psychopharmacology in the middle of January 2008. The researchers believe that it is applicable to humans even though it was done with mice. Vertebrates and specifically mammals are considered creatures who all show some kinds of aggression, and this aggression is considered necessary for the survival of the animals. Aggression is used to defend mates and defend your young, and also to defend territory. It is a natural impulse or drive, perhaps instinctual. And this study found that aggression is also rewarding and involves dopamine. Rewarding means that people desire aggression as a reward like they desire food and sex, and a variety of addictions. The reward pathways in the brains of mice are similar to those in the brains of people. In this study male mice were made to grow used to having a female in the cage with them. Then the female was removed and an intruder was brought in. Now both mice were male and the residents began to show aggression toward the intruders. The resident mice not only took aggressive stances but even went so far as to attack the intruders and fight with them. And that is not all. Researchers found they could train the resident mice to bring in the intruders to fight with them more. They trained the mice to poke a button with their noses that would bring in the intruders again and the resident mice would frequently bring in the intruders just for the purpose of starting a fight. The researchers say it proves the mice looked for a chance to show aggression just because they felt they were rewarded for doing it. And humans are theoretically similar to mice in seeking the rewards of aggression. To test that reward pathway in the brain, the researchers gave the resident mice a drug that blocks dopamine in the brain. They found that with dopamine blocked the mice were less likely to poke the button and bring in the intruder for a fight. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter and also a hormone. One of the functions of dopamine in the brain is involvement with motivation and reward, and that is what this study shows for aggression. Dopamine is known to provide pleasure to a person who gets a repeated reward by a conditioned stimulus. And dopamine neurons become depressed when the reward does not happen. That leads people (like mice) to continue in behaviors that bring more rewards. And that often determines typical new behaviors in people. Aggression, associated with dopamine, motivates people. When you are sealed you learn to fight off these natural urges to become aggressive. You begin by fighting the urge to act aggressively and once you act more peacefully you then begin to fight off the urge to think and feel aggressively too. Aggression is natural but it is not spiritual. Fighting for the truth and fighting for a good cause are sometimes necessary. But Jesus taught you to renounce aggression in most of its insidious forms. When you are sealed you will learn to become passive like Jesus--loving and blessing your enemies instead of fighting with them. God will give you the ability to renounce most aggression when you receive the Seal. And now Jason would like to invite you to get your FREE report Are You Making These Mistakes as a Christian? and "Get God's 'Seal of Approval' and Get the Victory Over Evil" Jason Witt
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Paul Proctor |
2007-10-06 |
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Title: Cat Behavior Problems : Taming The Beast
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The phenomena of cat aggression can be very frightening. Suddenly, your lovable companion has changed into a biting, hissing demon on wheels. For this article, we will tackle the issue of feline aggression, focusing specifically on identifying the five most common causes. We'll also look at several simple ways that you can deal with and minimize cat behavior problems, such as aggression, to nip them in the bud. Play aggression is the most common type of cat aggression. Play aggression occurs when your playful kitty plays so roughly by using his or her teeth or claws to play. Play aggression may be mistaken for aggression toward you. Always use a toy to play with your cat instead of your hand or other parts of your body to deal with this type of aggression. A related problem is over-stimulation, in which your cat lashes out at you because she has had a bit too much excitement. To deal with over-stimulation, simply withdraw from playtime and leave the room. You might also need to isolate kitty in a room of her own if she is severely aggressive. Once she calms down, her cat behavior problems should cease and she will return to normal. Most cats exhibit at least some territorial aggression. Any new person or animal entering a cat's home for the first time is likely to be subjected to it. Your cat believes that your house and all of its contents in fact belong to him. The way to avoid problems with territorial aggression is to slowly introduce the cat to your house's other people and animals, while providing it with treats while it gets to know them. Redirected aggression in a cat happens when a cat feels aggression toward another animal but turns his anger on you instead. This is an unusual cat behavior problem, but can happen when, for example, your cat feels threatened by another cat outside a window but cannot reach them. A good way to handle this problem would be to place shades on your windows. Then your cat will not be able to see the outdoors cats. Lastly, some cats become more aggressive due to health problems. Several conditions that cause pain to cats, such as abscesses, bladder infections, and stomach difficulties, make cats irritable. Since your cat cannot tell you what is wrong with him, he becomes more aggressive. Dealing with aggressive cats should therefore involve visiting a veterinarian before doing anything else to try to achieve cat control. Sometimes your cat might turn his frustrated anger towards you even though you aren't really the target of his anger. This is a case of redirected aggression, and is just another one of the strange cat behavior problems owners encounter. Any condition that causes pain, such as a bladder infection, abscess, or stomach problem, can lead to aggression because kitty cannot tell you what is wrong.
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Martin Olliver |
2006-09-14 |
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Title: Sudden Aggression in Older Dogs
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There are many forms of dog aggression. The distinguished police dog trainer Ed Frawley of Leerburg Kennels names 16 forms in his training guides, accounting for everything from the dog’s gender, to their possessiveness, territoriality, dominance, or fear. The residential dog owner doesn’t necessarily need to be so academic, but they should always be able to recognize aggression and deal with it appropriately. Aggression is always one step away from a dog bite, which is itself one step away from a vet bill and a lawsuit. The common signs of aggression are growling, snarling, barking, curled lips, lunging and an overall menacing posture, where the dog is tensed and ready to snap. (Note: there is also something known as a “submissive smile” exhibited by some dogs, whereby the animal actually shows its teeth as it approaches. I’ve seen this behavior confuse many owners, but it can be dismissed as such by the dog’s lowering its head as it “smiles,” and often wag its tail too). There are other indications, such as jumping or mounting, or even standing in your way that are much less of a problem and often go ignored when not accompanied by the other more severe signs. One of the most often misunderstood forms of aggression is that which arises in older dogs all of a sudden, especially when those dogs have been docile, even submissive, for most of their lives. This can be upsetting, as it seems like your dog is turning all Jekyll and Hyde on you. First of all, don’t worry or think that you need to be afraid of your friend. You should be able to narrow down the cause when you think about the situation you were in when the aggression manifested itself. If the dog reacted badly to a younger dog or even a puppy, chances are your dog is acting out of new sense of a challenge to their pack status. Even if you never had problems of this kind before, a young and over-energetic dog can pose a challenge to an older dog that can no longer keep up, even if the only thing on the young dog’s agenda is play. Older dogs in particular may enjoy puppies, but because of their increased age and decreased endurance, they will only tolerate them for a time. After a self-determined “grace period,” they will let the puppy know they’ve had enough in a firm and forceful way. In most cases, this message is sent with a snap that is “all bark and no bite.” In addition, one of the most common “hidden” causes of aggression in older dogs is the onset of arthritis, which makes them not only less able to engage with other dogs, but also potentially vulnerable and defensive as a result. Stiffness in the morning, a reluctance to jump up into cars or their favorite chair, and general lethargy are all early signs of joint pain. Arthritis in dogs is unfortunately very common, a result of genetic factors, diet, or even over-exercise. If arthritis is causing a dog pain, then they can lash out not only at other dogs, but also at you. See your vet if arthritis is a possibility, as there are plenty of steps you can take to address the problem, from dietary supplements to massage and acupuncture, and a revamped exercise regimen. Anti-inflammatory drugs are effective but best left as a last option (they cost a good bit and they can be rough on the dog’s stomach). Other medical reasons can cause aggression in older dogs, such as thyroid gland problems and possible brain tumors. These are rare cases, but they do happen. Dogs live and learn by routine and tend to act “in character.” Therefore, in general any sudden and sustained behavioral change to your dog should be investigated. About he Author:
Martin Olliver has over 12 years experience in dog training and is a proud member of the Kingdom of Pets team (http://www.kingdomofpets.com). For more great articles on dog aggression, visit: http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/articles/dog_aggression.php.
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2008-02-26 |
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Title: The Truth About Dog Aggression And What You Can Do About It!
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Do you have a dog that constantly growls at you, shows you his teeth or snaps at you? You may have an aggressive dog on your hands. Every day, many dogs exhibit aggressive tendencies. Although some aggression may be just for show, other dogs take it a bit further and seriously injure people or other dogs. Therefore, it is absolutely paramount that you understand the dynamics of dog aggression. In this article, we'll explain the causes of dog aggression and offer some tips for dealing with dog aggression as well.
First of all, we’ll discuss the various reasons why dogs may demonstrate aggressive tendencies. Although dog aggression may be caused by a single event, some aggressive behavior may be innate. Here are some tips to determine the cause of your dog’s aggression:
Agonistic aggression is exhibited when there is a personality conflict between two dogs. In this instance, the aggression might cause one or both dogs to act in an aggressive manner.
Barrier aggression is exhibited when a dog is confronted with a barrier, becomes frustrated, and is unable to escape. In response to the barrier, the dog exhibits aggressive behavior.
Competitive aggression is exhibited when dogs fight over social status. This is quite common with housemates as they attempt to discover which dog is "top dog."
Displaced aggression is exhibited when a dog is out of his comfort zone. This typically occurs in lost dogs found wandering the streets alone. They tend to show aggression out of fear.
Dominance aggression is exhibited when a dog believes that he is the leader of the pack. He tends to demonstrate aggression to keep the other members of the pack in submission, especially if he feels as if his dominance is being challenged.
Drug induced aggression is exhibited as a “side effect” of certain medications and tends to affect a dog's perceptions and may cause him to act in an aggressive manner. This type of aggression is typically is typically temporary and disappears once the medication is changed.
Fear induced aggression is exhibited when a dog is afraid. In response, he growls, snaps, demonstrates fear posture because he believes he is in a dangerous situation. this type of aggression is often found in abused dogs or those that are genetically prone toward aggression.
Improper socialization aggression is exhibited when dogs have not been properly socialized to get along well with other dogs. As such, when confronted with other dogs or people, they tend to become aggressive.
Intra sex aggression is exhibited when a female dog acts aggressively toward other females or when a male dog acts aggressively toward other male dogs.
Maternal protective aggression is exhibited when a mother dog acts to protect her puppies from harm.
Territorial aggression is exhibited when a dog acts aggressively in order to protect his toys, food or anything that he considers as his personal property.
Now that we have a better understanding of the different types of dog aggression, here are some tips when dealing with your aggressive dog:
1. If you believe your dog is aggressive, immediately take him to a veterinarian for a checkup to ensure that there are no medical causes of his aggressive behavior.
2. Consider hiring a trainer and begin obedience training right away. There are many trainers that are specifically equipped to handle aggressive dogs. Carefully select one that is experienced at handling aggressive dogs and have successfully taught owners how to deal with aggressive dogs in the past.
3. Do not encourage aggressive games like tug-of war, chasing your family members/ neighbors, or roughhousing with an aggressive dog. These types of games only intensify aggressive behavior.
4. Keep track of those things that might be contributing to his aggressive behavior and look for patterns of aggression.
5. Teach your dog that you are the ‘head dog” and that you are the leader of the pack. This can be done by doing the following:
a. Do not allow aggressive dogs to eat until you have given him the command to do so.
b. Ensure that your dog learns and follows the “leave it command.”
c. Do not let your dog go out of the door before you do.
d. Remove any toys that he considers as his personal property.
e. Prevent any disasters before they happen. For instance, do not take your dog out without putting on a leash.
In conclusion, there are many types of aggression that dogs exhibit. The key to dealing with dog aggression is to realize its potential causes and then taking proactive steps to effectively deal with this condition. By doing this, you can successfully deal with aggressive dog behavior and nip it in the bud before it becomes a major problem.
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Lamar Deane |
2007-12-04 |
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Title: Aggression Towards Other Dogs-Whats the Solution?
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*There are 2 situations in which aggression between dogs occur.
*1-When one dog is unfamiliar with another dog.
*2-Aggression between familiar dogs that live in the same household.
*Dogs may encounter other dogs while their owners are walking them. A dog that is not well-socialized might have dominant body language and stare other dogs straight in the eyes, which is conceived to be a direct challenge. Dog's that are otherwise friendly when not on a leash will more likely bark and lunge at another dog.
*To avoid these confrontations owners should stay alert and keep their dog on a short leash. They should have voice control at all times and not let their dog sniff or come in contact with another dog. To prevent aggression when a dog is on a leash is to train the dog early on he can't visit with every canine he meets. Owners should also teach their dog to sit and wait for permission before approaching another dog. They should also train their dog not to pull on the leash. Behavior and basic obedience training along with voice control can help in preventing aggression and fights.
*Along with keeping their dogs on a leash and with proper training owners can also avoid fights by keeping their dogs from roaming free, neutering them before one year of age, and start socializing their dogs when they are in the puppy stage between 5 and 10 weeks of age.
*There are 4 behavioral clues to look for if a fight is threatening to start:
*1-A stern, deliberate, and targeted stare.
*2-Body language; the tail held stiffly up or down; lips pulled tight against the teeth.
*3-Rigid body movement.
*4-A dominating posture stance.
*When dogs first meet they tend to establish a social hierarchy and determine whose top dog. They become involved in loud barking and growling. Sometimes the aggression escalates and a fight ensues where one dog latches on to another dog.
*If you intervene don't put your hands or get between them to avoid getting bitten yourself. If another person is there you can take your dog by the tail or hind legs and the other person takes the other dog and both pull back until one of the dogs loosens its grip. You should then move away quickly. This can be risky since dogs will sometimes bite whoever is hanging on to them.
*Fights and aggression that occur between dogs in the same household will be about those resources that are considered most important to dogs. These include territory, possession, food, sleeping-quarters, and favored people.
*Fights often come about over their sleeping territory near their owners, treats, food, owner attention (or greeting the owner upon return).
*Dogs of the same sex occur most often than those of the opposite sex and seems to be most intense between female dogs. Fights can also start between familiar dogs where one is obviously dominant.
*There are some familiar characteristics when it comes to fighting between dogs in the same household.
*A-Adult dogs over 3 years old.
*B-Dogs fight only when the owner is present.
*C-Dogs are of the same sex.
*D-A clash often between dogs is which one will be the dominant dog in the family pack.
*An owner might try punishment but typically this only promotes more aggression and creates new problems. Any breed of dogs can get into fights, and it depends more on the dogs training, temperament, and socialization.
*Some fights can start so quickly the owner is caught off guard, but many times you can spot behaviors that signal problems ahead. Keeping a watch out for these signs can keep a fight from starting.
*Of course the best approach is prevention and giving your dog proper training and providing good leadership.
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Eletendre |
2007-05-24 |
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Title: Dog Aggression Training – How To Deal With Your Dog’s Aggressive Behavior
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Anytime a dog is acting aggressive; there is a reason for it. Aggression in dogs happens because of genetics, environment and training methods. There is always a trigger for aggressive behavior. One of the first steps a professional dog trainer or behaviorist will do when dealing with an aggressive dog is find out what is triggering the aggression. There can be many reasons for this. Treating aggression consists of four steps. The first step is getting a through vet check. We need to rule out any physical problems before we can start any behavior program. The second step consists of safety and management. The third and step involves developing a positive relationship and structure. And the last step deals with treating and changing the dog’s aggressive response. In order for the program to be effective each part of the program must be followed.
1. Aggression is often described as a snowball going downhill. It starts very small and insignificant and quickly becomes huge and intimidating. It is very important that we try to limit the number of aggressive incidents that occur. Limit access to anything that triggers the aggression. Some other important points to remember are:
Walk the dog on a gentle leader
Muzzle before vets, groomers, etc.
Keep the dog kenneled or in a crate when unsupervised
Try to walk the dog in areas or at times when you are unlikely to come into contact with other dogs.
Remember good management skills are very important for any dog owner, but it is especially important for owners with aggressive dogs.
2. Positive relationship and structure: A dog is a pack animal, which is one reason they make such good pets because they respond to a social structure. In the wild, the pack is very loosely organized, but there is always a pack leader. In order for the pack to survive there needs to be structure. A dog living in a domestic situation needs to understand that its human pack members are at the top of the social scale. We need to be strong leaders in the dog’s eyes; otherwise the dog will develop unwanted behaviors. A dog does not have to be physically punished in order to learn that we are the pack leaders. A more desirable way to establish our position is to control what is important to the dog.
Games
Eating
Grooming
Social contact
Obedience
As you structure the relationship, it is also important to provide your dog with some mental and physical stimulation. A dog needs exercise and a change of scenery once in a while (walks at the beach, in the woods, going to parks are all good and necessary things for your dog.) Another good thing to do for your dog is to put him on a quality diet. Nutrition has a direct effect on your dog’s behavior.
3. Treating the aggression: Treating the aggression is a gradual process and should be done with a professional trainer. The aggressive response needs to be dealt with. Using harsh physical methods to deal with aggression can backfire. Putting a choke collar and trying to “correct” the aggressive behavior with a leash correction can make the behavior worse.
Conclusion
If your dog is showing signs of aggressive behavior please contact an experienced professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Aggressive behavior can be very dangerous and needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
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Colin Pederson |
2006-12-26 |
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Title: Dog Aggression - Behavior All Owners Need To Be Aware Of
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Aggression in dogs can be found in a variety of different behaviors and personality traits. Most dog owners only focus on the common aggressive dog behaviors such as barking, biting, growling etc... But it vital that you get to know your dog, that you can distinguish all types of dog aggression. Aggression and dominant behavior are natural instinct for pack animals such as dogs, they play an important role in the survival of wild dogs, giving each member of the pack a place in the hierarchy, using aggression to defend against predators, to hunt, and to assert dominance.
The level of aggression your dog demonstrates is determined by how much of a threat the individual or animal is seen to be. We class these as low and high level aggression. Low level aggression is the everyday aggression most dogs display. This is generally passive aggression, giving the other dog or person a warning that your dog is aggressive and in control of the situation. Low level aggressive behaviors include
1. Growling
2. Ignoring owners commands
3. Pushing and leaning into people
4. Jumping up on people or animals to intimidate
5. Aggressive stance
You will notice your dog displaying this lower level aggression when he or she begins to feel threatened. A common time to observe your dog in 'low level aggressive' mode is when he or she is introduced to another dog for the first time. Both dogs will take a stiff stance, observing and keeping their head up, tails up, and ears pointed. This is intended to make themselves appear dominant, and to look as tall as possible. After getting a good observation of the other dog and getting comfortable with the situation, one dog will generally back away, and you will notice the aggression begins to die, and the two dogs will start to become familiar with each other. Generally speaking, a spayed female will usually be the first to back down, followed by a neutered male, then an intact female, and last to back down will be an intact male. The build and stature of a dog is often irrelevant when it comes to introductions and this first aggressive encounter. The exception to this hierarchy is in instances when neither dog backs down, the aggression then builds as the battle for dominance begins. This will often lead to an extremely loud vocal display and often physical interaction.
When dogs meet a human for the first time, aggression will be shown through jumping up, pushing or leaning until the person becomes unstable and looses their footing, or growling with an intense stare. With smaller dogs and young puppies this behavior can often be portrayed as cute behavior and go un-noticed. Failure to identify and deal with this behavior can lead to more serious when the puppy has grown to be a larger dog, it can become dangerous and difficult to train. Whether your dog is a new/small puppy or a larger dog, it is important to deal with these aggression issues as early as possible, so your dog's 'low level aggression' doesn't become a problem in years to come.
If your dogs passive (low level) aggressive behavior is ineffective, it will escalate to higher levels of aggression in an attempt to recover dominance. Higher level dog aggression includes:
1. Snarling and snapping viciously
2. Biting
3. Jumping up and barking in an aggressive manner
4. Nipping at heels or legs
5. Staring and displaying teeth
Higher level aggressive behavior means business, your dog is still feeling threatened or non-dominant and your dog will move on to actual physical aggression, fighting, biting or attempting to bite. This is where things get serious and potentially dangerous. If you notice your dog's behavior escalating to high aggression levels, you must look into behavior modification training immediately. It is your responsibility to keep the public, other dogs, children and visitors to your home safe by isolating or sufficiently restraining your dog.
Aggression is a natural instinct for dogs, and it is essential that the owner is in control of the dog's aggression. Through early socialization and a firm understanding of the dog-owner relationship, your dog should not show aggressive behavior. If aggression does become a problem it is important to deal with the issue immediately. Re-training using positive methods works much better than punishment, but often professional assistance is needed.
Neutering a dog will control the hormonal causes of aggression, but not all aggression is hormonally caused. Spaying and neutering dogs does not guarantee that they will be docile, and breeds that are bred as watch dogs or herding animals will need specific training on being non-aggressive. Some dogs are not good with other animals or dogs, just like some breeds are less tolerant of children. It is important to understand the natural aggressive tendencies of the breed of dog that you are considering obtaining to make sure you get a good match for you and your family.
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Barbara Anderson |
2006-09-27 |
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Title: Handling Aggression In Cats
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Ouch! The cat just bit me! And all I was doing was petting her. Aggression is not an uncommon emotion in cats, and can be displayed both adults and kittens. This is why all pet owners should know how to handle their cat's aggression. Alpha cats are (the top cats in the pack displaying leadership qualities) should be given special consideration.
These cats use aggression to obtain certain benefits for themselves in preference to other cats. They can turn aggressive over toys, baths, food, space, and the attention another cat might be getting from the owner.
Cats may use aggression as a way to stop something they deem unpleasant. For instance, an alpha cat may jump onto your lap when it wishes to be petted and then bite and scratch when it wants you to stop. This phenomenon is termed petting-induced aggression. It is common in cats that have a low threshold for physical affection. This is also a way that aggressive cats show who is in control.
Surprisingly, kittens can also show a high degree of aggression. Aggression in kittens is a normal biological response termed play-aggression. It is an built-in drive to play rough. Play-aggression usually occurs when your kitten starts growing up and needs to practice its survival instincts. It is, fortunately, a phase that most kittens outgrow.
It is important that you deal with aggression in a firm manner. If, when you are petting it on your lap, an alpha cat bites you, you should make show your disapproval by not allowing it on your lap for a few days. When you do allow it to sit on your lap again, ensure that you are in charge of petting activity. You must initiate and conclude the petting session. After a few days, the cat will learn to accept your role as its owner and may learn to be more patient.
In the case of an aggressive kitten, it is you who needs to be patient. Learn to read your cat's body language so that you do not give it a chance to attack you. You could also get another kitten as a playmate. This gives your cat an outlet for its play.
Learning more about your cat and taking control of its aggression don't just benefit you, the owner. They also allow the cat to live a happier less stressful life.
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MR Bruno |
2007-07-16 |
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Title: 4 Ways To Stop Dog Aggression
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Dog Aggression is a serious dog behavior issue, but can be stopped once you understand the cause of aggression in your dog. Looking at it through the eyes of your dog, they would always tell you that there is a good explanation for the aggressive behavior which is causing so much stress and is so potentially dangerous. Your neighbor, Giuseppe, may want to run up and say hi to your dog with all good intentions, but your dog may think that Giuseppe is acting in a threatening manner, and therefore displays defensive aggressive behavior as protection. Causes of Dog Aggression Your dog’s family history is another important factor in determining the source of dog aggression. Some dogs have a greater propensity for dog aggression than others. For example, a pit bull may be a more dog aggressive than a poodle. Your dog’s upbringing, his socialization or lack thereof, can be a significant cause of aggressive behavior. This should be a major reason for every dog owner to properly socialize their dog as early as possible, preferably starting in puppy hood. Improper socialization is also evidenced in dogs that are abused or pampered when disobedient.
Types of Dog Aggression Dominant-Aggression- This type of behavior is evident when your dog’s status within the pack (your household) or the community (other dogs and/or people) is threatened. Fear Aggression- This type of behavior is evident when your dog become frightened and believes that his physical safety is at risk. Protection Aggression- This type of behavior is evident when your dog believes that he must protect something or someone. This type of aggressive behavior may also be manifested as Territorial or Possession Aggression, when your dog displays aggressive behavior to prevent danger to someone or something that he controls or owns. Similar in nature, they vary primarily by the factual setting where they are occur. Redirection Aggression- remember Giuseppe the neighbor who wanted to say hi in our first example? Well, suppose that another neighbor comes over and is unfriendly toward your dog. He might throw a rock at him. Your dog gets riled up, his anger starts to boil. The rock throwing neighbor hops the fence and leaves. Guess what might happen? Yup, Giuseppe might be on the receiving end of growling or in the worse case scenario, a bite.
4 Ways to Stop Dog Aggression You must understand that dog aggression is a serious and dangerous situation. While it can be corrected and stopped from being a problem, the first step that you must take is to protect your family. Your dog must be under vigilant supervision when around people. Don’t take your aggressive dog for a walk without a muzzle. Don’t let your aggressive dog loose to roam the neighborhood or the dog park. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for a checkup. Dog aggression can be caused by a medical problem which is affecting your dog’s behavior due to a chemical imbalance, irritability, fever or other causes. If this is the cause, your veterinarian can provide a treatment protocol to heal the medical condition and in the process lessen or eliminate the aggression in your dog. Spay/ Neuter- Dog Aggression is less evident in female dogs that have been spayed and male dogs that have been neutered. If you are making an appointment at the vet for a checkup, this might be a good time to get this safe and beneficial procedure performed. Not only will you make progress toward the elimination of dog aggression but you will also be doing something to help your dog live a long and healthy life. Dogs that have been spayed /neutered have less incidence of certain cancers and this is a great reason to have the procedure. And, of course, controlling the surplus population of unwanted puppies and dogs that are often euthanized at dog shelters is another wonderful bonus. See a professional dog trainer who has experience with resolving dog aggression issues. Different dog trainers will have different approaches. Ask the trainer about his philosophy of handling behavior issues and make sure that you are comfortable with his approach. Our preference is for dog trainers that have training as dog behavioralists. Keep your dog away from situations that are likely to provoke aggression. This may mean no playing in the yard or walks in the neighborhood until a dog trainer has helped you resolve this unwanted behavior. If he exhibits signs of aggression when he is in your car, you should avoid taking him into the car. By isolating from the place where his territoriality reigns, you will not have to deal with this type of behavior until the root cause is identified and corrected. Very Important When dealing with dog aggression it is critical that you remember this important rule. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, STRIKE OR PUNISH YOUR DOG. Your actions will only intensify the problem you are trying to resolve and in the case of physical punishment, is also inhumane and unlawful.
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