Behavior

Often aggressive dogs are afraid. A fearful dog, not allowed to retreat, may bark, lunge, growl and bite in an aggressive display.

We can reward dogs for appropriate behaviors while we reduce dogs' exposure to triggers for aggressive behavior.

Idiopathic aggression - without fear - is relatively rare. 

Mild to moderate fear can be addressed with counterconditioning and desensitization. 

Fear of inanimate objects like vacuums or statues may resolve with gentle, habitual exposure. 

If your dog is severely afraid, however, recommended treatment is a veterinary consult for medications followed by positive behavior modification (operant or classical).

Dogs with moderate to severe anxiety should first consult with a veterinary behaviorist for appropriate anti-anxiety medications. 

We need the dog to be relaxed enough to learn that the world isn't a scary place. 

Once the dog feels better, trainers can implement a behavior modification program to enrich dogs' and owners' lives.