How to Handle an Aggressive Dog

We all love our dogs, but when our pets are aggressive it can be hard to stay calm, and even harder to think of how to handle them when they act negatively towards strangers or other animals. However, an aggressive dog will most likely not be aggressive for their whole life. With the right amount of patience, training and – in some cases – supplements, your dog will be able to interact with others calmly and safely.

Supplements

There are many natural supplements that will help to calm an aggressive dog. Chamomile is a natural herb that can be helped to reduce anxiety in dogs, which is often a key reason why a dog will act dangerously. Vitamin B6 can also be helpful, as it helps produce serotonin to regulate mood and encourage a healthy nervous system. CBD oil for dogs can be very helpful, not only in terms of their aggression but it also has a number of health benefits. Poor health could potentially be an underlying reason for aggression, so there are many benefits to this natural remedy.

Try Behavioral Training

If you are unable to train your dog to be less aggressive, try enlisting the help of a dog handling professional. This should give your dog the intense and professional training they need to conquer their aggression. However, just because your dog is being helped by a professional trainer, it doesn’t mean that there is nothing you can’t and should do to help your dog yourself. As most dog aggression is caused by fear, try using the method of desensitization to help control your dog and prevent them from lashing out.

Start by teaching your dog to come to you and apply this command when your dog encounters something that will trigger aggression. Expose your dog to their trigger in a controlled way, such as having a stranger standing outside the fence in your yard, to ensure safety. When the dog lunges or shows aggression towards the trigger, tell them to come and reward immediately afterwards. This method takes a lot of time and patience, so don’t expect results straight away.

Keep Your Dog and Others Safe

Before your dog can be deemed safe to socialize with other dogs and strangers, it’s important to keep everyone involved as safe as possible. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, ensure that your backyard is fully secure, with no gaps in any fences or no chance of a gate opening – the less risk of your dog escaping the better. This doesn’t just apply when in the safety of your own home.

When out on walks, minimize the risk of your dog attacking anyone by walking them on a strong leash and not letting them off, even if there seems to be no one there, as another dog or human suddenly appearing can shock them and trigger aggression. In case any other dogs come near, make your dog wear a muzzle for extra protection; this is harmless to your dog and is essential if they are unfriendly.

Not all dogs are friendly and loving. Often, their nature or previous circumstances can encourage aggression, potentially making them dangerous. However, this does not mean that the dog can be untreated. This guide will help you to make the right decisions about your dog’s aggression and encourage them to be happier and healthier.