No pet owner would like their pet pooch to get involved in a dog to dog feud during a walk. Learn how to prevent dog to dog aggression in this article.

Dog To Dog Aggression

A common canine behavioral problem that is known, is dog to dog aggression, also described as a canine to canine antipathy. The intention of any dog-to-dog aggression is nothing less than causing some physical harm to its rival. Non-stop barking, growling, or snapping in the air are all considered to be sign of combativeness. These are like warning signals given by the dog to its rival to back off. Though it is a common behavior in dogs, some breeds like the terrier and bull breeds have a natural disposition to being inherently aggressive in nature. Sometimes it is in the hands of the owner to train their dog into a well- natured one with proper socializing and enough exercise. Though this canine behavioral problem can be treated and changed with ease, if taken less seriously it can create problems in the future. If you have an aggressive dog, and if it has been belligerent for a long time, it is high time that you get it treated. Navigate through this article to learn more on dog-to-dog aggression.
 
How To Prevent Dog To Dog Aggression 
There can be many reasons for dog-to-dog aggression, like fear, nervousness, sexual urge, and dominance among others. One or a combination of the above given reasons result in dog to dog aggression. Apart from these reasons, a dog can sometimes be considered as an outcast by other dogs. Outcast and lonely dogs therefore tend to be more aggressive especially towards other dogs.
 
How Can You Help The Dog 
  • The only person who knows your dog’s physiology and psychology well is its vet. Take your pet to the vet for a thorough check up, as sometimes there can be medical reasons that you might not know, for this aggressive nature.
  • Train your dog well. There should be a good communication between you and your dog, and a voice control over it is a must. Make sure that when you say ‘NO’ it should be a firm ‘NO’.
  • Let it live a life of harmony with other animals especially with other dogs. In this way, if your pet comes across another of its kind, it will remain neutral. Socializing therefore is a must for dogs.
  • You have the option of using a head collar or muzzle when taking your pooch for a walk or if you have guests at home. These however are just preventive measures and provide no permanent solutions.
  • Never praise or reward your pet if it shows aggression to another of its kind. In this case you need to reprimand it appropriately. Many dog behavior specialists now run boardings for pets. You can employ the services of one such specialist to help your pet overcome this problem. These specialists are trained to find the reasons behind the dog’s behavior and chalk out a corrective plan for them. Try to avoid any situations that can account for an aggressive behavior in your dog. For instance, if your dog has a certain dislike for a particular dog during a walk with you, all you have to do is either change the route or timings.
  • The way you hold the strap of your dog can make a difference. If you find a dog approaching from far, try to tighten the hold of your dog’s leash, so that your dog stands tall and give a dominating appearance. This might frighten the approaching dog, and it might even withdraw from the scene.
  • Reward your dog for having behaved well with other dogs. You can treat it to bits of dog biscuits or other appropriate treats or even just gently pat it. 

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