I was asked by a frantic owner what she could do about her dog's aggression. It had, apparently, attacked a neighbour's dog who was simply passing by. It's impossible to give advice on a dog you haven't seen so I suggested a home assessment visit. We agreed a suitable appointment and I asked her to keep him on the lead until I called.
An hour later she phoned back. "I've just spoken to my husband who says there's no need for you to call as Digby is only a young dog and he'll grow out of it."
I was tempted to ask how but didn't want to unsettle her even more.
The truth is dogs do not grow out of aggression or any other form of unruly behaviour. They are creatures of habit: the more they practice the more ingrained it becomes. Left unchecked growling turns into nipping and nipping becomes biting.
Dogs are by nature sociable animals, they have to form part of a pack. They know aggression is wrong, their genetics demand they be sociable, they just don't know how.
Unsociable dogs will always follow the path back to balance providing you show them the way. They can't do it on their own.
Leaving an unbalanced dog to his own devices and hoping he'll grow out of it is delusional. If he could find his way back he would but he can't; that's why he's unsociable.
Just as I've never seen an injured person who failed to improve after the correct treatment I've never met a dog that wouldn't become more sociable with good leadership and the right information.
If your dog has issues don't medicate him or cross your fingers and hope for a miracle. Give him the help he needs to shed his burden.
Alternatively join one of my training classes or text me on 07590-560012.
Comments
Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.
In my experience all dogs need: Education, Leadership, Constructive exercise and Care.
Many pet dogs get lots and lots of care and affection but very little else.
I recently rehabilitated a Husky that was destroying the house.
Once we gave it a job, leadership and purpose it turned into a really nice companion dog.
Be interesting to know what leadership & education an owner with one of your trainee dogs provides for their human child? Not suggesting you become a social worker, Vic, but an relevant question for comparison?
I was chatting recently to a gentlemen involved with improving failing schools.
He said the principles were exactly the same.
School teachers often say similar things when I help them deal with an unruly dog.
Personally, I'll stick with dogs.