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Whether you encounter a menacing German shepherd or a shaking, scared-looking small dog, your behavior toward that animal usually dictates how they'll respond. So if you want to build trust with a dog, you need to know what to do. Here's valuable insight to help you better understand dogs that act aggressively or scared, along with some tips for building mutual trust with your best friend.
In both cases, you're dealing with a dog that is uncomfortable with a situation and is likely protective of its personal space. That's why it's best not to try and act dominant over a dog that's acting aggressively. Also, avoid approaching a shy dog until you've earned its trust.
Here are some tips for putting dogs at ease:
If an aggressive dog lunges at you, your priority is protecting yourself. Put an object between you and the dog (such as a purse or backpack) and leave the area immediately. Do not punish a pet that's acting aggressively; they're telling you in their own language that the dog needs their space or feels threatened. Usually, a dog slowly escalates aggressive behavior when previous attempts to "ask" for space (posturing, growling, nips, or lunges) are ignored or punished.
Any dog can be aggressive, whether it's a burly pit bull or a shaggy, friendly-looking border collie. So never assume a dog is okay with being touched.
If the dog acting aggressively is yours, it's essential to start training sessions with a skilled behaviorist right away to identify the stressors. Dogs that feel "forced" to escalate aggressive behavior are all too often—and avoidably—euthanized.
"Resource guarding," also known as "possessive aggression," is the label for a dog's hostile behavior when the caregiver tries to take away food, toys, or bedding. How would you behave if someone kept trying to "steal" from you?
You can build trust with a possessive dog by offering to "trade" a more valuable item, like a special, extra-tasty treat when you have to move or clean their kennel or bedding, take their food or empty dish away from them, or take away a favorite toy.
If a dog already shows severe aggression under these circumstances, you can have a helper restrain them on a leash well out of reach (but within sight) of the item. Then treat the dog when it shows neutral or positive behavior when you approach the item.
This is a slow, gradual process in which you inch closer while paying attention to the dog's body language. You can read more about this training technique in this American Kennel Club article.
Also, it's advised to seek help from a skilled trainer if your dog doesn't respond to positive reinforcement techniques and you need more advanced help to build trust with a dog.
Studies performed on both neutered and intact dogs show mixed results. But many veterinarians and trainers in the U.S. recommend spaying and neutering dogs not intended for breeding. Since spaying and neutering dogs have never been shown to cause aggression, dog owners should seriously consider the procedure for their pets.
You can quickly learn dog training techniques used to help shy, fearful, and aggressive dogs. There are excellent books on Amazon to help you along the path to build trust with a dog. Still, the best way to get started is to have a certified pet behaviorist evaluate your dog. They can then show you and your family members how to apply dog behavior training fundamentals to your specific pet.
These techniques include:
The behaviorist dog trainer can also help you learn to read your dog's body language and teach you the subtle warning signs and triggers for a potential attack. This gives you the tools you need to remain safe, confident, and positive while working with your dog.
Behaviorists are helpful to all first-time dog owners and even for experienced pet parents bringing home a new dog, especially if it's a rescue dog that's been through a lot of emotional—or possibly physical—trauma. You can build trust from day one and reduce the chances that you'll have a nervous dog down the line. It's better to be proactive than reactive if you want a well-adjusted pooch!
Our orthopedic dog beds and rugs are designed for style and comfort so that your dog feels they have a safe retreat to spend time on their own. Be sure to contact us if you want to know more about our organic, eco-friendly products. Also, check out our blog, where you can learn more about dog behavior, training, health, and nutrition!
Let a shy dog approach you first, and speak to it in a calm, friendly, soft voice. Never try and cuddle a dog that is retreating from you.
Consistent, non-aggressive behavior on your part can help you build trust with a dog. When you respect its personal space, a dog will feel like it can trust you and will likely feel more comfortable approaching you.
If you've brought home a new dog, either a shelter dog or one you've purchased from a breeder, you should enlist the help of a professional dog trainer. They will work with you, your dog, and your family members to build a good foundation for trust and help avoid future problems with dog aggression.
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