Dog Aggression

[MaxHollyNoah]

Hi SueMac,

I agree with kjd about not trusting residential training centers. Training is the means to build trustful relationship between the dog and the owner, YOU. Dogs are not like cars or some kinds of machines, which can be repaired or adjusted by a technitian and you can get it back in a perfect condition. Even if the trainer could have trained your dog to his satisfaction, it does not mean that the dog would behave the same way when he comes back to live with you again.

I have a similar dog as yours. Mine has been totally lovable to people but used to get aggressive to other dogs. He even bit some dogs and I had to pay vet bills. I think it was mostly due to fear and lack of socilazation that he needed before we adopted him.

As KOPcaroline says desensitization is the only way you can get him over it. In my case, I discussed Noah's case with my dog trainer and asked her to include him in her class. I told all his classmates' parents about Noah's problem and promised that I would have him under control if their dogs are also leashed during the class. He started from a puppy class (although he was already over 2 yr old) and graduated from the advance class. It was good for him to meet with so many dogs under strict supervision and control. He also built his confidence through performing well in those classes.

After his aggression got somehow improved I started fostering dogs from shelters. I carefully chose dogs that can not be any threat to Noah. Usually middle sized timid female dogs (not playful jumpy ones) worked the best. By sharing the house with those foster dogs Noah got more and more used to be around other dogs. I still feel a little uncomfortable to take him to off-leash parks unless it is very early in the morning. Noah can not stand dogs without manners (those just approach so innocently and try to jump on him in a playful mode). It has been more than 3 long years since we started working on his aggression. In fact, that was the reason why I purchased this program. I don't use "Alpha Training" myself since I don't see any problems due to dominance in my 3 dogs and my foster dogs. I would rather establish heart to heart communication and trust with my dogs. They are masters of reading my mind and mood

Anyway, I just wanted to throw my 2 cents. Good luck