My dog has become very agreesive, she was not like that before, what should I do?

Question

We got a dog from SPCA 4 moths ago. She was so calm, gentle. She didn't bark, not to mention attack. But one month ago, she went out to the street and bit a tiny dog which caused the owner and us a lot of trouble. Recently, she is interested in all kinds of dogs, big and small. She barks, tries to attack on the leash. I was half scared to death last night. I tied her up to a branch of a tree while I was gardening. She saw a dog walking on the pavement through the gate and rushed out by breaking the branch and went to the dog. Fortunately that dog was stronger and big, and more ferocious, and she was defeated. We are the third family of the dog. I am wondering the reason she was abandoned twice may be that she was too aggressive, and not stable. Thanks.

Answer 1

This isn't just about her it's about you and her relationship with you. Dogs pick up on your own feelings, the first time she bit a dog was probably just doginess or her being territorial. But it's escalating because you probably tense every time another dog comes up and she is just reacting to that. Asert dominance, no sleeping on your bed, or going through doors or down stairs before you. But don't get angry it makes her more likely to act out. Dogs are sensitive, never use a choke chain. Now she may have been abandoned for these behaviors but it is fixable you just have to be willing to put in the work. Hope that helps.

Answer 2

As long as the aggression is only towards other dogs or animals, and NOT people, I would consult a professional trainer. Obedience classes are different things altogether, and will not only not help you, they may aggravate the problem.

You can also just keep her seperate and away from other dogs.

Some dogs are naturally more aggressive towards their own kind than others, but it doesn't necessarily translate into aggression towards people.

Also, how old is your dog? Most dogs don't fully grow into their temperment until they are 2 or 3 years old. Especially prior to 1 1/2 years of age, one can't tell for sure how a dog is going to be at 3 yrs old.

If that aggression does eventually bleed over towards people, do yourself and your neighbors a favor, and put your dog to sleep. Dogs DO get loose, no matter how careful and experienced the owner may be. It isn't worth taking the risk that the dog may someday get loose and hurt someone.

Answer 3

Contact the SPCA and see if they have a behaviorist that can work with you. Some do, and can be very helpful.

It does sound like canine or animal aggression, which is NOT the same as human aggression. Just because a dog is aggressive toward other dogs does not mean they will attack a human.

Muzzle train her with a cage muzzle. I can guide you on that. Then you can walk her, take her to the vet, and reduce the chance of her getting into real trouble.

If she isn't spayed, get her spayed as soon as possible. Purchase a spay certificate for less than $100 at http://www.friendsofanimals.org

Please email me at [e-mail] and I will further help you...

Answer 4

Sounds like canine aggression. Some dogs are naturally aggressive to other dogs like that and can often go to extremes. I've raised both of my dogs from puppies - not related, different breeds - and they were fine with each other until the youngest turned about 3 and then all of the sudden they started going at each other. Mind you, these dogs have NEVER fought with each other until this point and now they must be separated at all times. I suggest you get a chain for your dog; either she has had bad experiences with other dogs, has canine aggression, or feels the need to protect you. The chain will allow her to be outside, but hopefully it will help her realize that she can't try to eat other dogs! She still needs to be socialized. Training with use of an electric collar would probably be a good idea, even though it sounds harsh. I wish you luck with your dog; please stay with her no matter how difficult it may seem!!!!

Answer 5

Have you talked with the SPCA where she was adopted? I'm sure they have had questions like this before and may have some ideas for you to try.

Also, if her behavior has changed suddenly from a calm dog to aggressive, you may want to take her to the vet. This can sometimes be a sign of illness.

Answer 6

I would contact the SPCA where you got her from, its odd they would have adopted out a dog who was aggressive toward other dogs. But I know they do hold obedience and educational classes that could help you out. They have lots of programs that possibly may help.Call them they should give you some assistance they always have behavioral specialists that could work with the dog.

Answer 7

First thing you should do is consult with an animal behaviorist!!! Check the credentials closely when you find one. Also check with the shelter and try to find out if they have any information on why the dog was left with them or the previous owners. You need to resolve this issue immediately! Some dogs (like weird people) may move on to bigger(two legged) prey so don't wait! Best of luck and let me know how it goes.

Answer 8

Your dog may be suffering from leash agression and you need to get help ASAP> Call the SPCA and ask for a good trainer or your Vet. If you don't do this-your dog may bite a human or kill another dog.

Answer 9

That is a possible reason. It could be that she has been in dog fights? Or maybe she's been neglected and feels that any other animals would impose on her and steal her family and attention if you will! I hope i helped out a little. If anything call your vet, they can normally suggest something to help you! Good luck!

Answer 10

If you can, find a profession trainer who has worked with dogs with aggression issues before. Behaviors can be reversed in a lot of cases, try all you can before giving her up.

Good Luck!