How to Deal With Dogs That Are Aggressive With Other Dogs
Working to correct your dog's aggressive behavior toward other dogs isn't simple, but there are some tactics that may lead to a solution. Aggressive behavior in dogs is one of the main reasons people have a dog put down or give it to an animal shelter. When dogs are aggressive toward other dogs, they are usually not allowed or are discouraged to go to places like doggy day care and off-leash parks, and dog walkers usually won't take them because they are most likely walking at least one other dog at the same time.
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Instructions
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Get your dog checked out for health problems by a veterinarian first. You want to rule out any conditions such as a tumor that could be causing your dog's aggression.
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Establish yourself as the pack leader. Show your dog that you are in charge -- not him -- in order for him to listen to you. Some dogs show aggression as a way of being territorial or dominant.
Some ways to establish yourself as a pack leader, according to the Labrador Center, is to move from room to room as if your dog isn't there. This is what the alpha dog does in a pack.
Other ways to be a pack leader is to have your dog walk either beside or behind you while walking with him. Command him to sit before he gets a treat. Also, feed your dog one to two times a day, then take his food away after about 15 minutes, according to the Forpaws Corgi Rescue website.
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Create a calm attitude in your dog before you leave the house. A dog usually gets excited, jumps up and down, whines or barks, and turns in circles when he knows he is going for a walk. Instead, have him sit by the door in a calm manner to change his attitude or association toward his walk.
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Walk around the park alone away from the dogs first when bringing him to an off-leash park. Then walk your dog with a leash around the other dogs to be sure he is OK before you take him off his leash, but stay vigilant.
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Talk to a professional about your dog. If these tactics don't work, consult a dog trainer to find out if there is a trigger setting off your dog's aggression, says Dog Problem Solutions. Other factors could also be contributing to his aggression, such as past abuse, a recent move or change in the home such as a new family member.
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Tips & Warnings
All dogs are different and not one solution will help your dog. There is no easy solution and it may take a long time to work on easing your dog's aggression.
References
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