Raise a lover, not a fighter
Karla writes: : I am writing to you in regards to our dog Toby. He is a 2.5 year old, neutered Border Collie. We have only had Toby for 2 months. He is an adorable dog, well behaved, good with the children and our 2 cats.
When we acquired Toby he lived with his breeder and 4 other dogs but, although they all got on fine, he could not find his place in the pack. When he was a pup he on 2 occasions was attacked at Shows by other dogs and since then would rather attack a dog than make friends. In the last 2 months he has had 5 fights, all of which he dominated but did not always start. We are worried! He is so lovely we just want to help him.
Thank you, we hope you can help.
Kingdom of Pets Replies:
For whatever reason, Toby feels threatened, insecure or at risk from strange dogs and does not see you as his powerful leader or protector. His aggressive display is the result of his instincts compelling him to assume that senior role himself – he has no choice. For this to change, he needs to be sure that you are in charge and that he is in good hands. Fortunately there are a number of steps you can take to make a significant difference to Toby’s behavior.
Reinforce his Basic Training
Basic obedience training can be used to help your dog learn to tolerate the presence of other canines. Start training him regularly under a variety of conditions. Begin in a familiar environment so he is relaxed and at ease with no distractions, to thoroughly establish the discipline.
Beginning in the first of the following 5 situations, work with your dog on the commands ‘Sit – Stay’ and ‘Down – Stay’. When he can complete a 5-10 minute Stay with both of these commands, then move to the next on the list.
1. Inside, on-leash, with no other dogs or people present,
2. Outside, on-leash, with no other dogs or people present,
3. Outside, off-leash, with no other dogs or people present,
4. Outside, on-leash, gradually introducing dogs and people to the vicinity,
5. Outside, off-leash, gradually introducing dogs and people to the vicinity.
Avoid direct contact with other dogs until you have successfully completed this training (1-5). Unnecessary stresses or an unfortunate event could really hinder his progress.
Socialize him gradually
Once you’re satisfied with your dog’s obedience, try socializing him with other dogs – ideally dogs with calm, confident temperaments. If you think he may react by biting or fighting then consider using a muzzle as well.
Again, this will have to be a gradual process where the new dog is introduced at a neutral venue and from a distance.
Have your dog ‘Sit’ with the other dog in sight but a long way away. Treat him and praise him for following your command. Keep running through commands with him, you want to keep his focus and attention on you, while a friend gradually brings the other dog closer. If your dog looses focus and begins to react to the other dog have your friend move back to reduce the distraction.
Use a Head Collar
When out walking, use a head collar such as a Gentle Leader or Halti because it gives you more control over your dog’s movements. As you approach another dog praise your dog for being calm. If he becomes upset and barks or lunges, immediately turn and walk in the opposite direction without saying anything or reprimanding. This will show your dog that behaving calmly is what you expect and what it also in his best interests.
Don’t reinforce your dog’s problem behavior
If you react to a strange dog by tightening your dog’s leash, or speaking sharply to him, you actually tell him you’re very wary. His tension and aggression levels will increase. So hold a slack leash at all times. Speak to your dog in a happy, confident voice.
Practice Alpha Training
Finally, read our bonus book "Secrets to becoming the Alpha Dog". This book will give you a good understanding of the hierarchical nature and behavior of your dog, and will demonstrate to you how important it is for you to teach your dog that YOU are in charge, and not him. He will be much happier for it.
All the best,
Daniel Stevens and the Secrets to Dog Training Team
"Secrets to Dog Training - STOP Dog Behavior Problems!"
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/
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