Are you experiencing...
Dog to dog aggression?
Dog to people aggression?
Aggressively protecting food or toys?
Aggression towards family members?
If yes, then read on...
~~~
Of all the things I am asked to deal with, dog aggression is by far the most common.
In my experience, dog to dog aggression is the most common, followed by aggressive type behaviour towards the owner and other people. This can range from simple nipping and holding of the clothing to full on biting and attacks.
The vast majority of aggression is actually driven by fear and stress. The dog learns that showing teeth and lunging for example is an effective way to drive off the other dog or person. It is likely that the dog did not have sufficient socialisation at an early age, and the owner was not putting in adequate leadership from the beginning. This is why I am driven by the idea that an early preventative puppy visit can stop such issues arising in the first place.
let's say though that you have a newly acquired rescue dog, and there are issues there that need resolving. The dog's previously learned behaviour is beyond your immediate influence, and you have what you have at this time. Also, whilst it's good to see where things could have been improved in earlier life stages for your dog, the situation is what it is.
On a more positive note I think it's useful to say at this point that I am constantly impressed in how dogs have the ability to make changes in very short periods of time, and are always open to the idea that you the owner can take more control and show more leadership in a few hours. This will often leave an improved dog after the first session, and you will also be feeling far more confident.
Stopping aggressive behaviour and replacing it with a more positive approach usually takes time and requires a good deal of commitment from you. The rewards however are tremendous and well worth the extra input.
My job as always is to facilitate these changes, and guide you through the process. I will show you safe, calm, humane ways to resolve your dog's behaviour, and move into a better place for living safely and enjoyably together.
There are virtually always other issues under the surface that need addressing with cases of aggression. If you have issues outside with other dogs for example, we will need to first of all address your control and leadership inside the home.
My approach is one of support for you, not looking for holes in your methods and to make you feel small or ignorant. We will work together in cooperation with a view to finding a solution.
If you would like to discuss your dog's behaviour with me in more detail, then I would be pleased to receive your call or email.
N.B. If your dog is insured and covered for behavioural work, then I am able to work with you whilst you claim back my fees through your insurer. Being a full member of the the CFBA shows your insurer that I am a competent practitioner working to a high standard.