As humans, we have language and societal practices to formally introduce ourselves to even outsiders, but in case of animals, it can be usually acts of whines, whimper or aggression. In case of the same family, a dog, even if he or she is a pet of the household, may display aggression towards other new dogs. In some instances, the aggression factor can become an embarrassing situation if the neighborhood has pet owners. This article will mainly deal with information regarding dogs aggression towards other dogs.
Reasons For Dog Aggression
The term, is in use, since times immemorial by breeders and dog owners alike for defining a dog’s hostility towards other dogs. A look at the factors which contribute to aggression can put you with the best information so that you can take suitable steps to curb your pet’s undesirable nature towards other dogs. Some of the factors are:
- Traumatic experiences
- Feelings of anxiety, fear
- Abuse by members of the family in the form of training
- Genetic nature
- Non-exposure to other dogs during their growth phase
- Health problems
- Physical diseases or ailments
- The most important, territorial behavior
A dog, marks by its urine, its territory. If a new canine comes into the area, then it is normal for your pet to become aggressive.
In case of health problems, similar to humans, dogs also can become aggressive. It is mandatory, for these kind of problems, it is advisable to seek the service of a Vet.
Symptoms of Aggression
- Growling
- Lifting of lips to display their sharp front teeth
- Snapping
- Staring along with growling
- Fearful non-verbal expressions with its owner – tail tucked in between the legs, backing away in times of calling names, crouching and licking of lips
How To Cure These Problems Of Dog Aggression Towards Other Pets/Animals
Just as five fingers in a hand are not similar, the treatments for each dog will be different. The factors to be taken in consideration are age, breed, health, temperament and genetics. However, a study of the below given tips can give you the best results:
1. Have Your Emotions Under Control
As pets, many dogs are usually sensitive to the emotions and feelings of their owners. So, in case, you display feelings of anger or trauma, even your pet can get agitated. A tight holding of the leash, along with angry words uttered in the mobile on your morning walk with the pet can wreak havoc.
In case, you have information on a new pet dog being walked against, and your pet is showing symptoms of aggression, turn your dog around in the opposite direction. This will prevent acts of aggression. Also do not pull the leash hard when the pet lunges forward to attack the new dog coming into its territory.
2. Know What Triggers Your Dog’s Aggressive Behavior
The new dog may be large and might look superior which may promote feelings of uncertainty and fear in your pet. Fear turns to aggression and your dog will display symptoms of anger for protection. It is better to change the route to avoid a brawl.
3. Constant Exposure
In case, your pet dog has not been exposed to other dogs during its stages of growth and if it displays aggressive behavior, help it by slowly exposing it to other dogs. You can expose your pet from a safe distance and consistent training may allow it to become calm. In due course of time, the aggression diminishes and the pet can become comfortable with other dogs.
The desensitization treatment can be best achieved if you use the reward technique such as the pet’s favorite food, toys or playing its favorite game. Also, ensure that the sessions are carried out consistently and do not forget your pet’s aggressive nature in the process of giving love. The behavioral adjustment treatment where the dog is trained in course of time to perform an alternate act opposite to aggression such as sniffing the ground, turning the head etc. Giving rewards and encouragement, in the long run, will make the pet comfortable with the aggression trigger.
Treatment With The Guidance Of A Vet
An accurate assessment can be done only with a dog trainer or a person who is adept at handling dogs. The benefit of consultation with a vet is that the pet also gets screened for medical ailments. This, in turn, will give you a complete information of whether any physical ailment is making the pet show his uncanny animal behavior or modifications in behavior.
One of the most important parts in making your dog susceptible to aggressive environment, is when you resort to violence with the pet. Kindly note, this form of negative feedback will make the pet more aggressive, or more fearful of you. In course of time, the pet may attack you also.
There are some breeds, which need to be exercised every day, because of their genetic nature. Pit bulls, St Bernards need to be exercised and given instructions clearly from the initial stage. Before buying a pet, kindly check with your family as to their requirements, environmental surroundings and the pet breed. Taking all these factors into consideration, along with knowledge about handling a pet dog will make the canine a happy member of your family. You will also learn in course of time as to becoming a dog owner as well.