Where does it come from? Why are some dogs so aggressive and others not at all?

• Learned aggression – Aggression is often a learned behavior. Ever heard the expression “monkey see monkey do”? Learned aggression is when a dog has formed this bad habit by watching another dog. Sometimes, even humans can be the cause of learned aggression. For example, if a dog barks or, even worse, growls and the person backs away or acts scared – that dog was just taught that when it acts that way, it has control/power over people. This technique is used in training many police dogs.
• Fear-based aggression – A severe dog fight can make a dog aggressive toward other dogs, especially if the attack occurs when the dog is young. This will often lead to a dog with fear-based aggression, which can be the worst kind. This can result in an unexpected attack, as a dog with fear-based aggression will attack without warning, such as when you turn your back.
• Prey drive -  Some dogs have a great desire to chase prey, such as rabbits. (Dogs exhibiting a huge toy drive often have a serious prey drive.) Many trainers have concluded that the best way to rid or control this behavior is with the use of an electric collar, for the purpose of having control from a distance.

What kinds of movements or actions in humans do dogs tend to view as aggression toward them?

• Erratic/quick movement – Often, children will unwittingly annoy dogs because of their quick body movements. (Dogs may feel they cannot trust a child because they are unpredictable.) Many dogs find these quick movements threatening, so please keep this in mind when you have children around your pet.
• Cornering – When a dog is cornered, it can react with what humans call the “fight or flight response.” Since the dog does not have the flight option, it can feel that it must attack. So be mindful of backing a dog into a corner.
• Facial contact -  Contact with the human face can be intimidating to dogs. Often, dogs will go into avoidance if you try to put your face into the face of a dog you are unfamiliar with. Remember, although you may feel you know a dog well and that it won’t bite, the dog still has a mouth full of very sharp teeth. In a dog’s mind staring in the eyes is intimidating so a follower of the pack would never stare the pack leader in the eyes, so you can see how this would transfer over to them doing the same with humans thus avoiding face and eye contact, of course you need to be the pack leader in the dogs mind.

The best ways to deal with aggression in your dog.

• It is important to understand the way dogs think as pack animals and how they expect us to take charge. The first step is basic obedience and gaining your dog’s respect. If you tell your dog to do something (or not to do something), follow through and ensure that the dog obeys. Otherwise the dog will not take you seriously. Often, once you begin training, a dog’s confidence will increase. as dogs enjoy being given a job and being told what to do.
• Present yourself as non-threatening (i.e. relaxed). One way to do this is to yawn when you see the dog – this is viewed as non-threatening. Avoiding eye contact is another tactic. In some cases, dogs simply need to know that they can trust you and do not always have to be on guard. Once again, if the dog acknowledges you as the leader and is comfortable with you, it won’t feel the need to take the leadership role that most dogs are uncomfortable with anyway.
• Socialization is also vital when trying to have your dog more civil. You may need to start off where your dog simply watches other dogs interact, they can definitely learn from each other. You will begin to see your dog become more curious this is a great sign. Highly aggressive dogs should wear a muzzle or meet through a fence or some sort of barrier, for the initial meet and greet. Please note the way dogs shake hands is by sniffing each other’s rear ends, the reason is because that is where the most secretions are present. Possibly the most important thing to consider is know the dog you are having the aggressive dog met, it makes sense to avoid two aggressive dogs meeting. With that being said if you take your aggressive dog to the dog park you are wrong. Number one because you have no idea the temperament of the other dogs in the park, number two because there are much more crucial training steps that you ought to be taking.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado wants to teach you to be able to enjoy your dog in any situation, even around severe distractions. Upon completing our programs, you will confidently:

• Walk your dog off leash around distractions.
• Understand your dog’s drives and behaviors to enhance your time spent together.
• Control common annoyances like pulling, barking, digging, or aggression. Include your dog in your daily life at home, the park, or the beautiful Colorado outdoors.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado takes great pride in training Colorado dogs and their families — our mission is to ensure complete satisfaction with our clients. We offer both private and group training in your home and out, to address your needs when the dogs are at their most distracted. As our commitment, we offer absolutely UNLIMITED training for the life of your dog. Your family’s commitment to your dog is an important decision. We will show you an immediate return on your investment that will improve the relationship between you and your dog and show results to last a lifetime.

Call us today at 970-672-4454 to schedule your totally FREE demonstration and consultation with a professional dog trainer and their own highly obedient dog!