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Hi Dogsrule! Firstly let me clarify that I am in no way any expert on behavioural and training issues, just so thats clear! BUT, I am delighted that you are paying this very serious issue due care and attention. In the first instance, as per usual, I would recommend, especially with any possible aggression issues, that you seek the advice of the professionals on this matter – I am sure DID recommend lots of people on these boards that you could consult. In addition, I participated in an excellent very much hands on course with the DSPCA, which was very much audience interactive and was given by two experts in the behavioural / training fields, with years of experience between here, the States, India etc etc. The issue of aggression was also raised there. Its an area I have been quite interested in since one of our dogs (Lola) was savagely attacked and almost killed last year in an unprovoked attack by a restricted breed who was off lead at the time and had absolutely no recall.
This issue ended up being pursued through the courts. The dog of course, was not to blame, irresponsible owner!!!!!
Primarily, I would say to you, to read the dog’s behaviour first – watch in his posture for any signs of aggression, his stance will give you a good clue as to how he MAY react. Also, we have been told by a behaviourist that you should never introduce your dog or let them interact on a lead as dogs have the inbuilt fight or flight instinct, ergo, they are on lead and feel trapped so they will do one of those two things. Contrary to this, its not a good idea to let them loose together until you are sure of how they will get on. Other than that, because Im not an expert, nor do I know your dog, I would as I advised, seek expert help as this is an area that can very quickly go wrong and escalate until the dog is out of control and its much harder to treat the problem then unfortunately. I have seen the results of other dog aggression with our dog, when we nearly lost her so it should be given the attention it deserves…..
Lastly, in a possible dog fight situation, never ever intervene. If the fight is contained in somewhere like your back garden, a garden hose is very effective just to break it up. You will hear people come out with all sorts of mumbo jumbo like where to kick a dog, how to subdue it etc etc. TOTALLY DISREGARD. The experts at our course recommend something really simple but totally effective – simply remove an article of clothing and throw it over the aggressive dog’s head. This wont solve things totally but it will momentarily stun the dog and provide enough distraction for you / your dog to get to safety. I have tried it since, and it does work.
The very best of luck in your quest to address this issue. Well done for identifying it early and if you can, continue to socialise your dog, where possible, if there is no real threat to another dog. The longer this problem persists the more troubled a pet you will have in the long run…….
John Ward of http://www.dublindogtraining.com/ runs socialisation classes on Saturdays at Estuary Kennels in Swords Co Dublin
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