December 20, 2015
The majority of canine aggression can be blamed on poor breeding, medical issues, or a lack of socialization, all of which require professional help. Call us for advice if you think this sounds like your dog. Aggression is a normal response to stress even in well-adjusted dogs, which is why avoiding stressful situations is crucial in the first few weeks and months.
Some tips:
To avoid problems, don’t approach your dog when he is eating or chewing on something particularly good. If you need to take something away from him, offer something better. Toss a couple of tasty treats on the floor away from the contested object and remove it while he eats the treats. Remember you are new to the dog and he may not be willing to share until he knows you better. (If the behavior worsens or there are children in the household, call us.)
While he is not eating, walk past his food bowl and toss some kibble or treats into his bowl.
Hold the hugs (for now). Allow time for you and your dog to get to know each other before you try to handle him completely. Dogs can be just as particular as humans about being touched by strangers and as long as your relationship is brand new, proceed with respect.
To make it a good experience for your dog to be touched, offer a treat every time you touch him in a new area. Any kind of grooming or holding should be minimal at first and always combined with lots of wonderful treats. If your dog is on medication of any kind, be extra gentle and careful. A good rule of thumb is to let the dog initiate petting sessions until you know each other well.
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