Dog Aggression Forming

[Just Midol]

I think I may be having problems.

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

He has had multiple dogs turn around and snap at him or run at him and bite his legs, I always pick him up.

Usually the dogs are quite small, and because of this he is starting to growl as we pass smaller dogs.

I really want to correct this behavoir as these little shits are causing me HUGE problems but I am unsure how I can fix it? I don't know anyone with smaller dogs who I can use and he is poorly behaved around small dogs (plays far too rough).

I really don't want to add fuel to BSL so does anyone have any ideas? When dogs come Axle is at my feet and we've also been dropping as dogs past to teach him to ignore them but I can't see this going well if everytime he drops something bites him

ILTBY suggested a spray bottle (and I counter suggested a big arse water gun) to spray them so these dogs bugger off.

Does anyone have any suggestions? It really is annoying me. It happens no matter where I walk him unless I walk him in the forest which is illegal so I don't do it anymore.

[jaybeece]

Sorry to hear you're having some trouble

My 2 cents is that for one you shouldn't be picking him up- remove him as quickly as you can, but have him do it himself. I'd redirect him whenever other dogs cause problems and praise him a lot for compliance which will teach him that it's ok to simply walk away and to listen to you. The most important thing is to avoid any aggression (from either dog) and to keep his trust in you strong.

With his roughness around small dogs, if he gets too rough, I'd take him away from them. He needs to learn where to draw the line with play and if the other dogs won't tell him then you need to step in and make it clear to him.

[Just Midol]

I only pick him up if another dog bites him or rushes him - is it best not to?

I try to avoid the aggressive dogs but a lot of them are roaming so I don't see them till the last minute.

With little dogs I usually don't let him play off lead, just on lead otherwise he gets rough (like he did with Brissygals cav).

[Erny]

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

Midol - it sounds to me here that your dog has actually been "forming" aggression for a while. The above section I've quoted (and particularly - but not exclusively - the section I've highlighted) are tell-tale signs of dog signalling he is not comfortable with the situation he is in and it is especially at these times that your role as leader needs to be activated. In other words, that you take steps to protect him and take charge of the situation. Of course for your dog to understand that's your job (and to trust that you will not fail in it) depends on your leadership attributes that you exhibit to him on a general and daily basis.

I would suggest you enrol with a reputable dog training school (if you are not already) where you can work in a controlled environment and begin on desensitisation exercises. I have no idea of your relationship with your dog (as perceived by your dog) but running a check on heirarchy status never goes astray.

It would be the most helpful if you could arrange a consultation with a behaviourist so that your dog's behaviour and your relationship could be observed and diagnosis confirmed. This person should be able to set out a program for you in relation to process of desensitisation as well as give you things to do or change in relation to your reactions to your dog's behaviour.

Edited July 18, 2007 by Erny

[huski]

Midol you should try contacting the behaviourist I used, she will be able to show you the best techniques for handling Axle in these situations.

Are there any dog obedience clubs on the sunshine coast near you where you could take him? As erny suggested a controlled environment would be ideal to work on desensitisation techniques, then you won't get dogs rushing at Axle but you can work with him around smaller dogs that are leashed. I have found training micha in controlled environments really helpful for more difficult situations as I've "proofed" him in similar environments.

[leopuppy04]

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

Agree with Erny on this - Axle was showing you signs that he was 'uncomfortable' and perhaps now has since decided to 'defend' himself before another dog has a go..... It is always a difficult one. Has it happened a lot (as in other dogs having a go at him?)?

He has had multiple dogs turn around and snap at him or run at him and bite his legs, I always pick him up.

NEVER pick a dog up if there is a dog 'going' at them.

Usually the dogs are quite small, and because of this he is starting to growl as we pass smaller dogs.

Some people may not agree with this - and I am certainly not an expert as I haven't really had to deal with this before.... BUT if a dog walks past that is reacting to my dogs I get off the path (increase distance between me and other dog), get mine to sit (more control than trying to walk past) and ask them to 'watch' (focus on me and don't worry about that fuzzy thing walking past) - if they do all that they get heaps of praise. I also think it helps them build up a little trust in you that while you are there, there is no need for them to respond to the other dog. I still make sure that my dog is *aware* of the 'situation' though so that they know what the rewards are for (ie: they are aware the dog is there, they aren't just getting a reward for sitting/ looking).... I am hopeless at explaining things so I hope this makes sense!

I really want to correct this behavoir as these little shits are causing me HUGE problems but I am unsure how I can fix it? I don't know anyone with smaller dogs who I can use and he is poorly behaved around small dogs (plays far too rough).

The best way to CONTROL this is to know what causes him to react in this way - if it is little dogs - don't let him off lead with little dogs for a while. If you see someone walking a little dog (and you have Axle sitting) ask if you can say 'hello' - if Axle greets appropriately - reward appropriately.... again - don't know what your situation is (ie: whether Axle WILL behave appropriately) so this may not be an option. You have to make sure that little dogs = good things and not i'm going to get chased, growled at and bitten

ILTBY suggested a spray bottle (and I counter suggested a big arse water gun) to spray them so these dogs bugger off.

I'm a bit skeptical of this.... if the dog is already 'uncertain' about the situation, I wouldn't really want to add any more negatives..... but I guess you need to see it to fully understand - Husky's idea is a good one (re: professional trainer)...

Good luck!

[Staranais]

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

He has had multiple dogs turn around and snap at him or run at him and bite his legs, I always pick him up.

Usually the dogs are quite small, and because of this he is starting to growl as we pass smaller dogs.

You may never be able to correct the behaviour, if by "correct" you mean having a dog that always stays calm and polite around strange dogs, even if the other dogs are being completely obnoxious and threatening. IMO that's an unreasonable thing to expect of your dog.

What you should be doing is protecting your dog from having to deal with obnoxious or aggressive dogs. Letting your dog get bitten or scared by strange aggressive dogs is a good way to make him more and more reactive and dog aggressive. If you put your dog into situations where he feels he has to defend himself against other dogs, he will possibly also lose confidence in you as leader (as the leader, it's your job to protect your dog against strange dogs, if you don't do that, you're not doing your job and IMO you're letting your dog down).

What I'd suggest you do is make sure you don't put your dog in any situation where he feels he has to defend himself against strange dogs. Cross the road if you see rude-looking dogs approaching you on leash. Avoid offleash areas - if you want to socialise him, then set play dates with safe dogs instead. If people in your neighbourhood walk their dog illegally offleash, ask them to put their dog on leash, and if you see them offleash again, call animal control on them and keep calling until something is done about it. Your dog shouldn't be scared or damaged because other people refuse to comply with the law. Carry a water gun to use on the other dogs in emergencies if you think it will help stop strange dogs approaching your dog.

I do pick my dog up as a last resort if it's the only way to prevent him being rushed by strange dogs, and it has been helpful for us in reinforcing to him that I will always handle the situation when we encounter strange dogs, even if it is by physically removing him from the situation to keep him safe. But my dog doesn't redirect and is comfortable with this. It might not work for you.

Getting a good behaviourist to help you "fix" aggression is always helpful, but IMO it's better to prevent aggression forming in the first place.

Edited July 19, 2007 by Amhailte

[Just Midol]

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

Midol - it sounds to me here that your dog has actually been "forming" aggression for a while. The above section I've quoted (and particularly - but not exclusively - the section I've highlighted) are tell-tale signs of dog signalling he is not comfortable with the situation he is in and it is especially at these times that your role as leader needs to be activated. In other words, that you take steps to protect him and take charge of the situation. Of course for your dog to understand that's your job (and to trust that you will not fail in it) depends on your leadership attributes that you exhibit to him on a general and daily basis.

I would suggest you enrol with a reputable dog training school (if you are not already) where you can work in a controlled environment and begin on desensitisation exercises. I have no idea of your relationship with your dog (as perceived by your dog) but running a check on heirarchy status never goes astray.

It would be the most helpful if you could arrange a consultation with a behaviourist so that your dog's behaviour and your relationship could be observed and diagnosis confirmed. This person should be able to set out a program for you in relation to process of desensitisation as well as give you things to do or change in relation to your reactions to your dog's behaviour.

I'll try contacting the person Husky used, I meant to do it ages ago but sorted his issues out but this one I don't think I can handle alone.

Midol you should try contacting the behaviourist I used, she will be able to show you the best techniques for handling Axle in these situations.

Are there any dog obedience clubs on the sunshine coast near you where you could take him? As erny suggested a controlled environment would be ideal to work on desensitisation techniques, then you won't get dogs rushing at Axle but you can work with him around smaller dogs that are leashed. I have found training micha in controlled environments really helpful for more difficult situations as I've "proofed" him in similar environments.

There is one in Buderim (I think) I can attend. I'll try and sort out attending on a regular basis once I have a job (few weeks max)

You may never be able to correct the behaviour, if by "correct" you mean having a dog that always stays calm and polite around strange dogs, even if the other dogs are being completely obnoxious and threatening. IMO that's an unreasonable thing to expect of your dog.

I don't mind it if he snaps back, he is going to defend himself if someone attacks him and I don't think I could ever train him not to, my issue is with him growling at innocent dogs now.

What I'd suggest you do is make sure you don't put your dog in any situation where he feels he has to defend himself against strange dogs. Cross the road if you see rude-looking dogs approaching you on leash. Avoid offleash areas - if you want to socialise him, then set play dates with safe dogs instead. If people in your neighbourhood walk their dog illegally offleash, ask them to put their dog on leash, and if you see them offleash again, call animal control on them and keep calling until something is done about it. Your dog shouldn't be scared or damaged because other people refuse to comply with the law. Carry a water gun to use on the other dogs in emergencies if you think it will help stop strange dogs approaching your dog.

Most of the dogs doing it are offleash, in onleash areas Like I said, the only place I can walk him where I doubt I'll meet offleash dogs is in the state forest which is illegal.

I've called the ranger a few times but I don't think he can be bothered coming up here, we're a bit out of his way.

Getting a good behaviourist to help you "fix" aggression is always helpful, but IMO it's better to prevent aggression forming in the first place.

The only way to prevent it is to walk in the state forests IMO. I encounter dogs everywhere I walk - as he is a husky if I don't walk him he is a terror

Leopuppy: If another dog is biting Axle, or acting aggresively I shouldn't pick him up? If I left him he'd probably end up killing or seriously injuring the other dog...

Edited July 20, 2007 by Midol

[Mushaka]

NEVER pick up a dog in a fight,from any side. Only asking for trouble. If ur dog id that DA then i wld suggest a muzzle untill u sort things out. But lifting ur dog will onlymake things worse

quote name='Midol' date='20th Jul 2007 - 06:38 PM' post='1902355']

Axle has NEVER shown dog aggression before. Whenever dogs had a go at him he'd back away with his ears down. However more and more often we are having run ins with dogs (no matter where I go) and I think I can see problems developing.

Midol - it sounds to me here that your dog has actually been "forming" aggression for a while. The above section I've quoted (and particularly - but not exclusively - the section I've highlighted) are tell-tale signs of dog signalling he is not comfortable with the situation he is in and it is especially at these times that your role as leader needs to be activated. In other words, that you take steps to protect him and take charge of the situation. Of course for your dog to understand that's your job (and to trust that you will not fail in it) depends on your leadership attributes that you exhibit to him on a general and daily basis.

I would suggest you enrol with a reputable dog training school (if you are not already) where you can work in a controlled environment and begin on desensitisation exercises. I have no idea of your relationship with your dog (as perceived by your dog) but running a check on heirarchy status never goes astray.

It would be the most helpful if you could arrange a consultation with a behaviourist so that your dog's behaviour and your relationship could be observed and diagnosis confirmed. This person should be able to set out a program for you in relation to process of desensitisation as well as give you things to do or change in relation to your reactions to your dog's behaviour.

I'll try contacting the person Husky used, I meant to do it ages ago but sorted his issues out but this one I don't think I can handle alone.

Midol you should try contacting the behaviourist I used, she will be able to show you the best techniques for handling Axle in these situations.

Are there any dog obedience clubs on the sunshine coast near you where you could take him? As erny suggested a controlled environment would be ideal to work on desensitisation techniques, then you won't get dogs rushing at Axle but you can work with him around smaller dogs that are leashed. I have found training micha in controlled environments really helpful for more difficult situations as I've "proofed" him in similar environments.

There is one in Buderim (I think) I can attend. I'll try and sort out attending on a regular basis once I have a job (few weeks max)

You may never be able to correct the behaviour, if by "correct" you mean having a dog that always stays calm and polite around strange dogs, even if the other dogs are being completely obnoxious and threatening. IMO that's an unreasonable thing to expect of your dog.

I don't mind it if he snaps back, he is going to defend himself if someone attacks him and I don't think I could ever train him not to, my issue is with him growling at innocent dogs now.

What I'd suggest you do is make sure you don't put your dog in any situation where he feels he has to defend himself against strange dogs. Cross the road if you see rude-looking dogs approaching you on leash. Avoid offleash areas - if you want to socialise him, then set play dates with safe dogs instead. If people in your neighbourhood walk their dog illegally offleash, ask them to put their dog on leash, and if you see them offleash again, call animal control on them and keep calling until something is done about it. Your dog shouldn't be scared or damaged because other people refuse to comply with the law. Carry a water gun to use on the other dogs in emergencies if you think it will help stop strange dogs approaching your dog.

Most of the dogs doing it are offleash, in onleash areas Like I said, the only place I can walk him where I doubt I'll meet offleash dogs is in the state forest which is illegal.

I've called the ranger a few times but I don't think he can be bothered coming up here, we're a bit out of his way.

Getting a good behaviourist to help you "fix" aggression is always helpful, but IMO it's better to prevent aggression forming in the first place.

The only way to prevent it is to walk in the state forests IMO. I encounter dogs everywhere I walk - as he is a husky if I don't walk him he is a terror

Leopuppy: If another dog is biting Axle, or acting aggresively I shouldn't pick him up? If I left him he'd probably end up killing or seriously injuring the other dog...