I recently adopted a 14lb 1 1/2 yr old Doxie/Corgi mix that has a bad case of fear based aggression towards people (not including my family) and large dogs! I want to socialize her with people! But I don't know the right way to go about it without her biting anyone! Please do not advise me to hitting her, I want this to be a positive experience! Thanks in advance!
2007-02-03 06:45:01 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
we had this problem with one of the dogs at the SPCA that I worked at. her name was gladys. best thing for the people...is...Have people walk by her starting at a distance and moving in VERY slowly...take a YUMMY treat like pieces of hot dog. BUT ONLY USE IT FOR THIS EXERCISE VERY IMPORTANT!!!!! when the person is about to walk by...throw the treat her...Do not walk by and then throw the treat..it will do nothing you want for her to think that treats mean good people are coming. when they throw the treat DO NOT STOP and talk to her keep walking and every few times get closer and closer and practice EVERYWHERE. when taking her outside sit with her far away from people just in sight of them and when you see someone coming give her a treat..eventually she will associate treats with people. As for the other dogs..she is 14 years old and well..she has learned and been behaving like this for her whole life so you can try...using the treat method with her for that but more then likely she will continue with this behavior for the rest of her life....but work with her about the people :) hope that helps...
2007-02-03 07:40:03 · answer #1 · answered by gigi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No hitting!
I have a corgi mix that used to show aggression too.
It depends on how bad it is.
First, sign him up for obedience classes. This will help more than you can imagine. It is a great place to help your dog overcome aggression problems and get properly socialized. He'll be on a leash the whole time, at least until he's under control. There will be other people and dogs and the expert advice of the trainer.
Meanwhile, if necessary, keep him on a leash when he is around people and dogs he might be aggressive toward. Use an obedience type collar unless you really object to this. When he starts to growl, correct him. Jerk the collar abruptly and say "no" in a firm voice. Remember that a louder voice expresses more authority to your dog; it is fine to raise your voice if necessary, but make your command short and then enforce it quickly. Don't "argue" about it. As soon as he stops growling, say "good dog." When he doesn't growl or try to attack, say "good dog," praise him and maybe give him a treat.
Remember that when a mother dog disciplines a pup, she snarls or uses a quick nip. You are not going to nip your dog, but the jerk on the collar provides a similar quick message to the dog, and is interpreted as authority rather than hostility.
Take him for walks where he will see people and dogs, and do the same.
When he seems more tractable, let the person or dog approach closer. When he is ready, let people pet him and give him treats. Food really wins a dog's heart.
Be sure to have people visit at your home so you can socialize him there too. And don't let his small size keep you from teaching him proper behavior!
I'm sure he'll be a fine dog.
Good luck.
2007-02-03 15:16:37 · answer #2 · answered by The First Dragon 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My suggestion would be to arrange for somebody (friend or whatever) to come to your home. Have her on a fairly short leash, which should never leave your hand, and do not allow the person to come within range. Sit and talk for a while with your dog next to you, and reward her for calm, accepting, and friendly behaviour if exhibited. Take baby steps and advance from there once you get the reaction during that stage that you're aiming for.
I really hope you can work it out. It must be a horrible experience for both of you. Also, never hit her. This will just escalate the problem as she will asociate non-family members with the pain you're inflicting on her. Positive reinforcement is best in any situation.
2007-02-03 14:57:56 · answer #3 · answered by throughtwoeyes 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Best to hook up with some people that can help:
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/agbeh/
- a moderated list with a FAQ so you can get started right away. Good luck. It can take a long time, and you will definitely need a lot of patience, but you can see results IF you are not working against neurological problems.
And good for you to keep it all-positive. The last thing a fearful dog needs is a shock collar and alpha rolls!!!
*edit* - the suggestions above to talk to other people if they approach your dog are very good. It's your responsibility to 1.keep well-meaning people away for now, and 2. protect your dog from being triggered into a blowup.
2007-02-03 14:57:25 · answer #4 · answered by Misa M 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A good dog training class may help. I have a dog like that and I have taken him to petsmart, petco, places like that to walk around. I try to take him when it's not so busy. I don't know how bad your dog is, but it may be a good idea to muzzle him. I don't muzzle mine because he is usually good unless someone comes up to him. I just pay close attention and ask that they don't touch the dog. Works out well for me.
Good Luck
2007-02-03 14:55:51 · answer #5 · answered by Fish Lover 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Take her places. Take her on walks, and even to pet stores, and just make her sit and when she's good, give her treats and praise her. Tell people to just keep their distance, "Dog in training."
This is a start-- But you should definitely consult a personal dog trainer or behaviorist for this issue.
2007-02-03 14:54:48 · answer #6 · answered by Tazwell 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋