Home Based Dog Training

Showing an aggression to another dog is quite very normal behaviour of any dog but settling down the conflict between the two is a troublesome task for humans. At the same time, just because it is a natural deed, the aggression problem cannot be just left untreated as it may get worst. The dog aggression problem can be categorised into two different scenarios.

1. The aggression that occurs between the dogs that live with each other. It is also known as sibling rivalry.
2. The aggression that takes place when you take your dog on walks and outings. This is called “on leash” aggression.

Aggression On Walks

The aggression could be shown by your dog for dominance, showing the hold on territory, sexual interest, or for defence purpose. The dog also shows aggression when he feels insecure. Many a times, the genetics of dog also leads him towards this unsocial conduct.

This behaviour should be controlled so as to avoid future problems.

·         The key to all dog related problems is the obedience training. A proper training given to the dog establishes an easy communication between the master and the dog. Moreover, the correct training make the owner capable of controlling any dog related situation. Start teaching him the commands like “down stay” the day you see the first signs of aggression.

·         Dog loves socialising. He should be taken to walks and outings and should be brought in contact with other dogs and pets from his puppy days itself. This helps the dog to accept the presence of other dogs in his vicinity. This practice proves to be an essential step in avoiding dog to dog aggression.

·         Dog to dog aggression is not acceptable; make your dog aware of this truth. Whenever your dog gets into a conflict with another, stop him by saying a firm “No” command. If you are ignoring this act just because it is natural, you are giving an open invitation to many other related problems. Also, try not to use any painful method like electronic shock collars as this would only make the matter worst. Try to divert his attention by throwing a treat on front of him and asking him to find it.

·         Avoid taking your dog to the path where he could confront his dog enemies. This is not the solution but will definitely lower down the frequency of conflicts.

·         Keep a check on your body language when another dog is approaching. That means, if you tighten up the leash grip at the sight of any other dog, you simply convey a wrong message to your dog that the other dog is making you feel stressed. This it self triggers the aggression. Instead if you will completely ignore the presence of the other dog, your dog will feel secured and comfortable.

Sibling Rivalry And Bonding

It occurs when a younger dog challenges the status of the older dog, or as a competitive fight between the siblings over food, toys etc. These fights can be controlled and avoided. All you need to concentrate is on their correct training. When two dogs are living together, the fights are bound to occur. By thoroughly exercising your dogs you help them in draining out their excess energy thus reducing the possibilities of aggression to large extent. The easiest way to sort the sibling conflicts is do not interfere. Like for example, if one of the dogs has established his/ her dominance, you do not become the rescuer of the other dog. Accept it as it is and you will find both of your dogs miraculously living amicably.