Dog aggression is a common issue dog owners get to deal with after a dog adoption in San Diego. The challenge is that dogs get aggressive for a wide range of reasons. These reasons range from health issues to fear and more. If you want to stop your dog from being aggressive you need first to identify the root cause of the aggression. Here are some of the best things you can do to stop aggression.
Visit your vet
If your dog started being aggressive suddenly there is a good reason the aggression is being caused by a medical problem. Aggression in dogs can be caused by painful injuries, hypothyroidism as well as neurological problems like epilepsy, brain tumors and encephalitis. Talk to your veterinarian to determine if the aggression is a result of a health issue. Don’t be afraid to take your puppy to the vet after a puppy adoption if you are dealing with aggression. Your vet will help rule out medical problems as the cause of the aggression.
Hire a professional
You don’t have to deal with the aggressive behavior on your own. You can hire a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist to help correct the issue. Aggression is a serious issue and you must not attempt to handle it on your own. A professional has dealt with the issues your dog is displaying and will be able to create a plan that manages the issue. Your veterinarian can give references of the best professionals in San Diego.
Create a plan
A dog trainer or behaviorist will help you find the best approach for managing the aggression of your dog. In most cases positive reinforcement is used to teach new behaviors. For example, if you went through with a dog rescue in San Diego and ended up with a dog that is mildly aggressive towards strangers you should start by standing far from someone your dog doesn’t know. Doing so will keep the dog from snapping or growling. Reward the dog with treats and praise as you decrease the distance between you and the stranger. With time your dog will learn that stranger-equal-treat and will reduce the aggression. Always keep your dog on a leash throughout.
Avoid punishment
Punishing your dog for being aggressive will most likely backfire. If you yell or hit your dog for growling the dog will have the need to defend himself by biting you. Punishment may also cause him to bite someone else without any warning. When a dog growls around kids it just tells you he is uncomfortable around them. If you punish him for growling, he may never warn you next time and will simply bite.
These are strategies you should consider using to stop aggression after a puppy rescue. At times for the best results you need to combine socialization and training with medication. Your vet can prescribe medication that you can use to calm your dog thus reducing the aggression.