by Katrina Murphy

Created on: November 13, 2008

Fear, abuse and improper socialization produce aggressive behavior in dogs. This aggression may direct toward people, other dogs, specific scenarios or objects. When helping aggressive dogs, we carry immense responsibility to the dog, ourselves and other living beings to ensure safety. However, we can help an aggressive rescue dog become a responsible member of society- through careful approach, guidelines and understanding of dog behavior.

-Build a Strong Bond-

Most importantly, if you are unsure of yourself or the predictability of the dog- do not attempt to handle an aggressive dog without the help of a trained animal handler. However, the following guidelines are helpful to understanding and helping aggressive dogs.

Our stance, intention and confidence mean everything to an aggressive dog. If you are the object of a dog's aggression, it is imperative that you "own" your space. To do this, simply stand your ground, display confident, positive body language and tell yourself that you are in charge. Do not, under any circumstance, look into the eyes of a hostile dog because he interprets this as a challenge. Do not speak. Look away from him, but keep him in your line of vision without turning your back to him- and remain calm. To work with an aggressive dog, you must think and act like a dominant dog. Dominance, in your case, does not mean aggression, but positive, strong leadership.

With this approach, most aggressive dogs will eventually calm down and allow their curiosity or submission to take over- this is your chance to begin a positive relationship. Allow him to sniff at you while you continue to avert your gaze away from him. Once he stops being "jumpy" from the slightest noise or movement and stands next to you, you may leave the area or move to the next step of rehabilitation.

-The Walk-

Walking a dog is vital to rehabilitation and construction of a solid relationship. When we walk aggressive dogs, we must take every precaution to ensure the safety of all other people and animals. Appropriate tools and techniques enable us to master this crucial step.

Many people employ the use of "choke chains" and "biting" collars to control aggressive animals, yet they are not effective unless used correctly. If not used correctly, they only inflict cruelty without aiding the rehab process. If you must use one, do not allow the dog to continually pull and choke itself. Correct use is to give a quick, sharp pull to the side (not backwards toward you) when the dog acts

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