Aggressiveness towards other dogs

It is natural for a dog tpo sometimes get into a fight with another dog. Some dogs are more prone to do so than others. They either act, or are, more aggressive for a variety of reasons. Even a dog fight can look really scary, most of the fights do not result in serious injury. Try not to get in-between two fighting dogs, more harm can be done to you then they do to each other. Sure, there are exceptions, but please let common sense rule.

Dogs act aggressively towards other dogs for a number of reasons. One of them could be that the dog as a puppy was not properly socialized. If a young dog is never allowed to play with a variety of other dogs it will grow up feeling insecure, anxious and tense at some time in the company of other dogs. Some dogs are not social if they feel the need to defend their territory/surroundings.

This might be the family backyard, the house, or personal items such as the food bowl or the bed. Most aggressions towards other dogs are based on hormonal issues. A female dog with puppies or in heat will act agressive towards other dogs. Unneutered males might act more agressive towards other males that are not neutered. Neutered males act less aggressive towards other neutered males. If a dog is tied up for long periods of time or restrained somehow it will feel the need to be aggressive due to his defenselessness. Many times agression has to do with bad/no training. The dog thinks he is superior and has taken on leadership position. A dog can also turn agressive after it has been attacked by another dog. Some dogs have inherited agressiveness from their mothers or fathers, or if they have been the runt of the litter, they have learned to fight for a feeding space and are more agressive as adults than others.

As you can see, there are numerous reasons why a dog acts aggressive. Do not reinforce this behavior. If you see that your dog growls at other dogs don’t assure him that this is o.k. Don’t punish him either and don’t pick him up. Just distract him and go away from his object ob dislike.

If he snaps at another dog don’t try to restrain or soothe him. Don’t praise him either. Again, walk away.

Taking your dog for frequent walks and exposure to other dogs will help improve his behavior. If you know that your dog is not overly aggressive and prone to bite other dogs let him ivestigate them. Act friendly and confident, don’t show uneasyness and fear. Your dog will pick up your mood. If you pretend that this is a totally normal, fun situation, the dog will relax.

Praise your dog for appropriate behavior. Get control of your dog. Training your dog to confirm your leadership is an absolut must. Teach him the commands of sit/stay and down/stay. If you have not already done so, get your dog neutered. This might reduce his territorial tendencies.

One trick from a doberman trainer: If you see that your dog starts acting agressive towards another dog, feed him treats. Stop feeding as soon as the other dog is out of sight. Feed again if you meet the next dog. That way a dog learns that meeting another dog is as a pleasurable experience (treats) and will quickly stop growling or snapping. As soon as the dog does not show agressiveness anymore you can either cut down on treats, or stop completly.