Basic Family Guidelines To Handle Aggressive Situations With Dogs

Whether you are spending time with your dog or out in public around others dogs, situations may arise when you or your child is threatened by an aggressive dog. Keeping calm and understanding what actions the dog interprets as threatening can make all the difference between a pat on the head and a bite on the arm. At home, there are things you can do to keep your dog from being aggressive towards others.

What signs determine an aggressive dog?

Dogs do not have to be vocal to be exhibiting signs of aggression. A stiff dog with his body arched is on the defense. Other signs include showing teeth, growling or barking, and maintaining a direct stare. If you notice any of these behaviors, then do not approach the dog.

What should I do if I am in an aggressive situation?

You should always pay attention to your body language around dogs. If a dog feels threatened by the way you are holding yourself, then he is more likely to resort to aggression. You should never wave your arms in a shooing or protective manner; keep your arms by your side. If the dog starts to approach you, then be still. Let him sniff around. Without giving him a fighting opportunity, he will probably lose interest. In a frightening situation it can be hard to keep your composure. However you must stay calm, and do not run away. Dogs are natural chasers, and if you take off you can be sure he will follow.

What should I do if my child is in an aggressive situation?

Instruct your child in the above guidelines before he ever faces an aggressive situation. If you see him in a dangerous position, then calmly talk to him. Tell him to be still and neither approach the dog nor run away from the dog. If the dog is sniffing around your child, never grab your child away from the dog. Dogs like to play; and if you treat your child as a toy, then so will the dog. Place yourself between the child and the dog, but approach the middle position slowly. The dog may understand your protective instinct, but if you rush to the middle, you will become the threat.

What are general rules of approaching a dog?

There are rules both you and your child should follow. If you do not know the dog, then don’t approach it. There is no reason to create a dangerous situation. If the owner is present, then first ask permission before trying to pet the dog. Don’t move toward the dog too quickly or with odd gestures. Keep your hands to your side. As you get closer to the dog, then outstretch your hand so that he can smell. Do not try to pat him on the head immediately; this movement can be seen as a threat. If the dog wants you to pet him, then he will let you know by accepting your hand. Until you know the dog, don’t try to get down to his level. Dogs are natural pack animals and establish leadership positions. If you automatically place yourself at eye level, then he can see this as a challenge to fight for leadership.

What can be done at home to keep my dog from becoming aggressive?

Naturally, aggression starts as puppies. It is not out of meanness; rather, it is instinct that develops prior to training. Thus, training is the best way to ensure that your dog does not develop aggressive behaviors. A dog may develop aggression for a number of reasons, including protectiveness over food and toys, pain management, and dominance. Always make sure that your pet has a quiet, secluded place to eat. He should not be tormented by a child. If your dog exhibits aggression at certain time, perhaps when you are pulling on his leash, then he may be experiencing pain. In this case, you should take him to you veterinarian to rule out any medical causes. If you do not establish leadership over your dog early on, then he will establish himself as the leader and thus be aggressive towards the rest of the household. Proper training will allow you to be the leader, and should be started as early as possible.

Placing yourself in an aggressive situation is dangerous. Never approach a strange dog or leave your child unattended in a public, dog-friendly area. You should know how to handle an aggressive situation before it occurs and teach the rest of your family as well. Basically, you must always remain calm, and never entice a dog to attack. At home, an early training program will usually deter your dog from resorting to aggression.

The Clever Parents column, Pet Perspective, is written by Collin Walker who is a trainer, practitioner, educator and specialist of pet related issues. Collin devotes his time to exploring the matters that shape the connection between pet owners and their pets. He has co-authored, written and taught these matters to make that truly inspirational bond even stronger. He hopes that through his articles he can pass forth knowledge that will make even the everyday parent - become an expert. Educate, Exercise, and Experience. Visit Collin’s website at www.pet-super-store.com a site featuring dog training collars and dog tracking collars.