The dog that you own might start showing aggressive behaviors towards you.The key to gaining the trust of an aggressive dog is patience and consistency.If you want to present yourself as a non- threat, move slowly.Reinforcement and treats should be offered as often as possible.If needed, protect yourself from warning signs, such as growling.
Step 1: Allow the dog to get in touch.
If the dog shows a direct interest in you, don't reach down to touch it.It is possible that it will try to get in touch with you.Stand still until the dog has had its fill.
Step 2: Request help from the owner.
It is a good idea to ask the owner if it is okay to pet the animal if this is not your dog.If the dog is aggressive, you will know that bonding will have to occur at a distance, if you want to try at all.If you see an aggressive dog running around without an owner, it is a good idea to call your local animal control office.You might say that the dog is pretty.It is not a good idea to get close enough to read the tags with an openly hostile dog.The dog can bite or scratch you.Wait for the animal control officers.
Step 3: Don't make eye contact.
Looking directly into a dog's eyes can be seen as an aggressive act, which will be returned in kind.Try to find a focal point above the dog's head.You can look at the dog's collar instead.If you look directly at the dog, quickly flick your eyes away.This will prevent more conflict.
Step 4: The dog is on the side.
If you are sitting, standing, or crouching, try to get a non-direct angle to the dog.The aggression may increase if you interact with the dog in a head-on way.It is possible that the dog will face you directly.Simply shift over if this happens.
Step 5: Approach very slowly.
Don't move in a straight line if you decide to get closer to the dog.Try to get closer to the dog by walking in an arcs.If you sense an increase in aggression, take a few steps at a time.
Step 6: Throw some treats on the ground.
When interacting with an aggressive dog, offering a treat directly by hand isn't a good option.A few small treats, such as pieces of cheese, can be thrown near the dog.Try to look away for a moment to encourage the dog.If this is not your dog, make sure you get the owner's permission before you offer food.It is possible that it is on a special diet.Positive reinforcement is an especially good method for dog owners to use.Your dog may associate you with good food.
Step 7: To sniff, extend a single hand.
It may be time to take the next step if you have spent enough time with the dog to get it to respond to you.Slowly position yourself closer to the dog and then reach out with a single hand.If you keep it palm up, you can hover it in the air.It's a good sign if the dog sniffs you.You can try again if you don't get it.This step makes you vulnerable to an attack.Look closely at the dog's body language.If the dog growls, begins pawing the ground, or lays its ears back, then it is probably best to stop and try again later.You can try petting the dog if it loosens up.Keep your petting to the side or back of the dog.Stay away from the dog.
Step 8: Stay patient.
Your dog has positive qualities.It might be very soft with its favorite toys.It is likely that you will face setbacks when trying to break through with your dog.If you get too frustrated, give yourself a break from your dog and regain control.
Step 9: Know what your dog does.
Take some time to observe your dog's behaviors.Does it get frightened during a storm?Is it not afraid to have men approach?Is it protective over food?Try to avoid those areas that lead to poor behaviors.Set your dog up for success.If you have an idea of your dog's past, you will be in a better position.When your dog was younger, it will exhibit food protectiveness.Feeding times won't be the best times for an initial approach.It is possible that you are the cause of the aggression.The dog may be reacting poorly to your presence.It will be harder to bond with it if this is the case.
Step 10: There is a calm and relaxing environment.
Dogs will respond negatively to stress.Turn down the TV in order to keep the noise in your home to a minimum.Limit large gatherings of people.Don't have a lot of dog toys in your house.You will need the help of anyone living in the household to make this work.Consistency in your interactions with your dog is important.
Step 11: Your dog should be given its own space.
Dogs do best when they can claim their own territory.Place your dog in a crate for a short period of time and then leave the crate open.Put your dog's toys, food, and water bowls in one area of the house.Children and other pets are not allowed in this area.
Step 12: Spending time together is relaxing.
People shy away from spending time with aggressive pets.That leaves your dog with too much energy.Take your dog on controlled walks or spend time in the backyard with no one else around.
Step 13: You should consult with a dog trainer.
You can either get a dog specialist to come to your house or you can attend a class.A private session is probably the best option for dogs with severe aggression.You can find a certified dog trainer in your area by searching online or by contacting the American Kennel Club.
Step 14: Be cautious.
When interacting with an aggressive dog, make sure to watch out for your well-being and that of others.Reason is not always effective or useful when some dogs don't fully realize what they are doing.Some dogs will never become the stereotypical friendly companion, so only go as far as you feel comfortable.
Step 15: Aggressive posturing is what you should look for.
A dog will move its body into an attack position when it becomes aggressive.In order to prepare for the spring, it might lower to the ground.It could lunge forward and backwards.To prepare for a blind attack, it could try to move to the side of your body.If a dog looks directly into your eyes, be careful.This is meant to be an aggressive move.To diffuse the situation, keep looking at the left ear of the dog.If the dog moves toward you, continue to watch it.
Step 16: There are unwanted herding behaviors.
A dog is trying to push against your leg.It could nip at your foot to get you to move in a certain direction.If you don't comply, these nips could turn aggressive.If you want to avoid being nipped, cross your arms across your chest.In a firm voice, repeat the command, "No".Keeping your eyes on the dog at all times, hold your ground or move slowly in another direction.
Step 17: Pay attention to the tail movements.
The tail is indicative of a dog's feelings.It is easy to misunderstand.A wagging tail does not mean a dog is feeling friendly.A dog canwag in an agitated way.It's a good idea to look for loopy, uncontrollable motions.An agitated wag is more controlled.There is a tail that moves in a horizontal motion.
Step 18: You should watch for growling or teeth baring.
A clear sign of aggression is what most people will look for right away.A dog is showing its teeth.There is a chance that the dog will back down if you respond to this warning.You can say no in a calm voice.You can ignore the behavior if you watch the dog closely.Do so slowly with your body still facing the dog, if you choose to back away for your own safety.
Step 19: You should consult with a doctor.
If you see any signs of aggressiveness with your dog, it is a good idea to seek help from your vet.They can inspect your dog for a physical cause, such as arthritis, behind the aggression and pain.They could suggest a particular dog trainer.If your dog bites other people or animals, you may want to use a special collar and leash.An anti-anxiety medication can help keep your dog calm.