Dog on Dog Aggression

[peanutsservant]

This is the other big problem I have. My dog is a 3 yr old llhasa, neutered male. I have had him 6 mths. He was raised with 6 bulldogs and was apparently kept in a crate a lot. He did not get along with the other dogs in the house which is how I got him. He is seriously dog aggressive. All he has to do is see another dog and he goes crazy. He will fight through fences at dogs on the other side and would go after any dog he sees if he could. I don't know if he has short man's syndrome or if the bull dogs he was with beat him up. Anybody know how to help with this problem? I correct him when we are on walks and do not let him fight in anyway but he is totally focused on getting the other dogs he sees and hears. Luckily he is small enough to control. If he were a big dog I would not have him.

[KOPsarah]

There are two possible causes for dog on dog aggression or the problem may be a combination of both. First he may not have learnt proper socializing skills with other dogs. Secondly he may not accept you as alpha dog so he thinks he has to protect you his lower pack member form other dogs.

The solution is therefore to address both these issues. First do the alpha dog training course with him asserting yourself as leader of the pack also do basic obedience with him. At this stage in his anit-aggression obedience training this may have to be at home rather than in a class. As your dog comes to accept you as leader he should be more respondent to your commands in the presence of other dogs. Secondly you need to introduce your dog to other friendly dogs in a calm and non-threatening way. This is best done in neutral territory such as at a park with a dog who's owner is willing to cooperate. Keep your dog under control on a leash and preferably a head collar so he cannot pull or lunge towards the other dog. Start with the other dog at quite a distance ignoring any bad behavior from your dog and rewarding any calm non aggressive behavior. As your dog becomes calmer you can bring the other one slightly closer. This will have to be done very slowly over several sessions and with many dogs. Remember the overall goal is to let your dog know that you are the leader and you expect calm behavior.

Also always be cautious when handling your dog making sure that it does not redirect its aggression at you. The headcollar can be useful here as puling downwards on it will shut the jaw but remember it is not a muzzle ad there is still a need more caution. I hope this helps and you and your dog will soon be having a lot more fun on walks and out in public.