Monday, February 27, 2012

Controlling Aggressive Behaviour in German Shepherds

By Marsha Branson


There are lots of reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. It may be as a result of dominance related issue between your dog, or it may be a trigger which was never properly handled from puppyhood - for example a panic attack with a different dog. Whatever causes your canine's aggression, however, you have to address it as being soon as you possibly can. The outcomes of prolonged aggression could be not just scary, but dangerous otherwise quickly come to task.

The origin of Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

Dog aggression can start as young as 6 weeks of age, a crucial age when a puppy should be socialized with other dogs and given the necessary training that keeps them from biting other people. This period of socialization lasts until the dog turns 14 weeks of age and can extend even further beyond that.

What this means is a number of things. First, never have a puppy from its litter before 2 months old. Never use harsh discipline using the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and ensure your dog is extremely gently treated for the reason that time. Hitting, yelling or any other harsh punishments in a early age can breed aggressive behavior in dogs with time.

Your dog will need been properly socialized with individuals along with other dogs when he reached 14 weeks to prevent any future aggression issues.

Actual aggression could be triggered by a variety of factors. Heredity and genetics are extremely factors - some breeds could be more aggressive than the others - but it's in no way a tough fast rule. Additionally, dogs which have not been neutered or spayed tend to be more vulnerable to aggressive tendencies.

Undoubtedly, however, the most crucial element in creating aggressive behavior in dogs is the environment. Your dog which has poor living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that's been frightened or attacked by another dog is much more apt to be aggressive because it ages.

Aggression can grow from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies are often the result of a dog testing for dominance. You'll need to establish dominance at a young age and maintain that position throughout the dog's adolescence to ensure it doesn't get a chance to take control of the household.

Stopping and Controlling Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior after 14 months of age, when it has reached sexual maturity, especially after it has been altered, you should address the problem immediately. First, make sure you have established yourself as the pack leader. Don't reward your dog for aggressive behavior, even if it is scared (especially in this case).

Train your pet to reply to your commands, control feeding and walking times, and ensure your dog includes a strong leader in the home. Should you defer towards the dog or let it take liberties in your house, it'll exhibit stronger aggression toward others.

In case your dog is defensive-aggressive, they might strike out in a part of fear. These dogs might not have been properly socialized. Have them from young children (that they could see as direct threats) and attend an exercise session or behaviorist who are able to slowly acclimate your dog to some social atmosphere.

Aggressive behavior in dogs has become a problem that lots of owners have, however it could be controlled, even while your pet ages. In case your aggression ever advances to violence, consider getting a professional to intervene before someone gets hurt as well as your dog is held accountable.




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