Aggressive behavior in dogs and cats can be a worrying problem that may require the support of a professional pet behaviorist to resolve. As a pet owner, it is vital that you understand the safest and most effective ways to prevent aggressive behavior in pets.
How to Stop My Dog from Being Aggressive
The root cause of dog aggression is often based on fear or negative experiences. Dogs rarely want to behave aggressively – it is normally a last resort when all other attempts to signal that they are fearful have failed. Here are some things you can do to stop your dog from being aggressive in different situations.
Create a Safe Space
Like humans, dogs benefit from a secure environment to retreat and relax. This space can be a room, crate, or corner with their favorite toys and a soft bed. Over time, your dog will recognize this as their sanctuary and naturally gravitate towards it when they feel overwhelmed.
Distraction Techniques
If your dog is getting worked up over something specific, like a loud noise or an unfamiliar visitor, try distracting them with a toy or a treat. Engaging their attention elsewhere can reduce their stress levels and redirect their focus.
Obedience Training
Teaching basic commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘down’ can help calm your dog during anxious moments. By giving them a command, you’re not only distracting them but also giving them a purpose and a task to focus on.
Physical Activity
An exhausted dog typically is a calm dog. Guaranteeing that your dog receives sufficient physical activity can effectively alleviate their anxiety. Engaging in leisurely walks, brisk runs, or lively rounds of fetch can significantly help expand their stored energy.
Soothing Music
Studies have shown that certain types of music, especially classical melodies, can calm dogs. The next time your dog seems stressed, try playing gentle tunes to see if it helps.
Gentle Massage
Massages can be relaxing for us, but they can also help to soothe anxious dogs. Softly stroking your dog’s fur or gently massaging their neck and back can release tension and calm them down.
Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding calm behavior can encourage your dog to remain composed in potentially stressful situations. Using treats, praises, or petting as rewards can reinforce the behavior you want to see.
CBD Products
CBD, or cannabidiol, has recently gained attention for its potential to reduce stress in humans and dogs. CBD products designed specifically for pets can be an effective way to help calm dogs. Whether in the form of tinctures, treats, or capsules, CBD has been reported to alleviate various symptoms of stress in dogs. However, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before introducing CBD to your dog’s routine, ensuring it’s the right fit and determining the correct dosage.
Professional Training
Considering professional training or therapy might be beneficial for dogs that continually exhibit high levels of anxiety or aggression. These sessions are specially designed to get to the root of the problem and equip you with the tools to handle it.
Avoid Overstimulation
In situations where your dog might get overly excited or anxious—like when guests come over or during fireworks—try to avoid excessive stimulation. Keeping them in a quiet room, away from the chaos, can help.
Familiar Scents
Sometimes, all a dog needs to calm down is the comforting scent of their owner. Leaving an old T-shirt or a used blanket with your dog when you’re not around can give them the reassurance they need.
Socialization
Well-socialized dogs are less likely to become aggressive as they are more confident in different situations.
Recall
A good recall response can help you get your dog out of situations where they are likely to become aggressive. If your dog’s recall is unreliable, keep them on the lead in unfamiliar places.
Be proactive
When out and about with your dog, look ahead for situations that may trigger an aggressive response, enabling you to take avoidance measures.
Aggression can be a sign of pain or ill health in dogs and cats, so it is a good idea to get your pet checked out at the veterinary clinic.
How To Calm Down an Aggressive Dog
If you’re in a situation where your dog is behaving aggressively, it is important to remain calm and quickly take the appropriate action. Never put yourself between your dog and the object of their aggression, as in the heat of the moment your dog may lash out at anyone present.
When your dog is behaving aggressively, the best solution is to calmly remove them from the situation as quickly as possible. Never force your dog to ‘face their fears’ and remain in the situation, as this will only reinforce their belief that the trigger of their aggression is something to be genuinely frightened of.
It is a good idea to teach your dog a command that helps you quickly distract them from the object of their aggression. Two-word phrases such as ‘this way’ or ‘come here’ often work well. Alternatively, a favorite toy or tasty treat can be a good distraction. Once your dog has been safely removed from the situation, take a moment to let them calm down and reward them with calming treats.
How To Deal with An Aggressive Cat
Cats use aggression as a way to avoid situations or people that they dislike. For example, your cat may become aggressive when you try to administer worming or flea treatment or when they object to being stroked.
The best way to deal with aggression in cats is to completely ignore their behavior. Do not attempt to stroke or interact with the cat, but stay present and don’t back away. By observing your cat over time, you can start to identify particular scenarios where they become aggressive and take steps to help them overcome this unwanted behavior.
Summary
Dealing with an aggressive pet can be a daunting prospect and many pet owners seek the help of a behaviorist to help treat dog aggression. As a short-term solution, distracting your cat or dog with treats containing CBD oil is an effective way to keep them and others safe from harm. Then, with some careful training and management, you can help your pet learn to deal with everyday situations without showing signs of aggression.
