Injured dog becoming aggressive

[jacoby]

Hi,
My 10 month old Papillon broke his right front leg in a nasty fall 2 weeks ago.
He's since had surgery to have it pinned & casted & also has been back twice for re-casting & a check of the incision-everything looks fine & he should be getting the cast off in another 4-6 weeks. Since the injury, he has become quite aggressive towards strangers and especially other dogs & cats. (he always hated cats but not dogs). He was socialized with people (not many kids though) at a young age, but unfortunately has only been around a few other dogs. However he did okay with the dogs he did meet before and he certainly never instigated anything. I've always been allowed to have him at work from time to time with me and prior to the injury he was always friendly & outgoing with everyone. Now he is okay with "regulars" that stop by but anyone new, especially kids, get him growling, barking and trying to get through the baby gate enclosure I have for him to get at them. He also has begun barking and growling when in his crate which he hasn't done before. At home, it is only my husband & son & I and he hasn't really changed his behavior with us, although he has slowed down from his usual hyper self (medication I'm sure is cause). I've been told that the injury is probably causing him fear aggression, I'm wondering what I can be doing to curb this behavior. Classes & exercise are strictly off limits until after the cast is off. My initial reaction is to try to comfort & protect him, usually giving treats and just telling him no barking & petting him & I hope that is all I should be doing?
Any words of wisdom would be very appreciated!

[foxi7778]

Hi, can't offer much advice on how to actually stop your dog doing this, but definitely don't pet him and give him treats.....your dog will see this as being rewarded for the behaviour that you are actually trying to stop. I know you're only trying to comfort and reassure him, but this is not how your dog will view it I'm afraid.

[jacoby]

Thanks, thats what I've been reading alot of on here. Luckily, he seems to be improving daily & I am limiting my praise & love for when he does positive things, which seems to be working well.

[foxi7778]

Hi, keep up the good work, it'll take time, but you'll get there in the end. Keep us posted on how it's going