How can I get my dog to be less aggressive with other dogs?
I’ve had my dog for about 2 months now. I rescued him from a shelter, he came from an abusive background but he’s a great dog. He’s very aggressive with other dogs though. He growls when he’s near them and I’ve learned that it’s because he wants to get to know them but he doesn’t "introduce" himself properly. A month ago, he was attacked by another dog and it was horrible. I thought he was going to get killed. Thankfully, that didn’t happen but now I’m so afraid when I take him for walks or to the park. I feel like something like that will happen again and I won’t be able to get him out of the situation. The minute I see another dog, I take my dog and we leave. I can’t even enjoy my time out with him because I’m constantly looking for other dogs. What should I do?
I like to use Iams kitten kibble as a teaching treat. Put a handful in your pocket. take your dog for a walk, and as soon as people approach, just before he would normally bark, make a signal, such as ‘tsk-tsk’, and give him a treat. As the people are passing, continue to give him a few kibbles. If he doesn’t bark, give loads of praise. Don’t scold him if he does bark, but ignore it. keep this up for a couple of weeks, if walked daily, and he will get the point, and begin wagging his tail, and looking to you as soon as people or dogs approach.
In your home, do much the same. However, a firm ‘No Bark’ is in order in your home, and make him back away from guests. You must be the boss in your own home, he shouldn’t be allowed to be rude to guests. Reward good behavior with affection or treats.