Dog Bite Training to Avoid Aggression
Dog bites are common in California. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are over 4.5 million dog bites every year nationwide. When you consider these statistics, it makes you wonder if dogs are natural biters or if no one has taken the time to teach them not to. There are obedience classes on how to make your dog heel and obey other commands, but little about training dogs not to bite. Dog owners have a responsibility to others to curtail this unruly and dangerous behavior. When they don’t, people get hurt. Let’s look at a few ways to teach Fido not to bite.
Socialization
When dog bites occur, it is usually because the canine is afraid or being territorial. It is important to make your dog feel at ease when he or she is presented with a new situation. This can range from a stranger approaching the dog out of nowhere or a neighbor’s child running into the yard. When a new puppy enters your family, it is important to acquaint them with different things, including people and places. This is called socialization. The more socialized a puppy is, the less likely it will react negatively toward a new person or situation. Puppies will often bite when they are playing, simply because they don’t understand it is wrong. Saying no firmly can break a puppy of this habit.
Older Dogs
Some dogs are older when they are adopted. There is a process called adult socialization that works here. While experts believe that puppies under four months of age benefit most from socialization, dogs of all ages do too. Make sure you have a positive attitude as you introduce your pet to new things. If you are nervous, your dog will pick up on it and behave similarly. Give the dog a reward for behaving properly. Make sure visitors don’t keep their hands hidden during these encounters since this may frighten your pet. Some ways to socialize an adult dog include:
- Take your dog out for a walk every day. This will allow them to see new people ranging from someone in uniform or a person carrying an umbrella.
- Go to the dog park so they can see other animals.
- If possible, think about putting your pet in doggie daycare for a short period so they can become socialized with other animals.
- Let friends bring their dogs to your house to interact with your new best friend.
Rescue Dogs
Rescue dogs may require a slightly different approach to dissuade them from being aggressive. It is important to know about the dog’s past if possible. Mistreated or shy dogs may take a little longer to socialize. However, even if obtaining this information is not possible, the dog will give you clues. Look for signs of fear when training the rescue dog such as crying or trembling. If these signs show up, realize that you may need to slow your pace.
Have Your Dog Neutered
While it is important to have your dog neutered for many reasons, decreasing the risk of aggressiveness is one. Aggressive behavior is linked to the hormones released in an unneutered animal.
Positive Versus Negative Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement works on everyone, including your dog. Basically, it provides a reward for good behavior. Use treats, verbal praise or other ways of showing your dog that you are pleased. You can use a strong verbal rebuke to tell your dog he did not meet your expectations. It’s all in the voice you use. Dogs are capable of picking up on your displeasure and will try to please. Never hit a dog. This does not work and only causes the dog to be more fearful. One study showed that negative reinforcement results in a 25-percent increase in dog bites.
Try Obedience Training
The more obedient your dog is, the less likely he or she will bite. Since training uses basic commands, it is possible to use them to distract the animal in uncomfortable situations. The dog will also benefit from training in other ways. Canines who are trained are more confident and less fearful as a whole. This can help avoid a confrontation, resulting in serious injuries.
Understand What Your Dog Is Trying to Tell You
Dogs speak volumes without using verbal language. There are indications that a dog may become aggressive. It may not only lead to a dog bite but raise the risk of serious infection from the wound. Look for the following:
- Yawning
- Hair raised on the back
- Bared teeth
- Ears flat and back
- Tail down and tucked
- Showing whites of their eyes
- Crouching
California Dog Bite Laws
In California, the law states that if your dog bites someone, you are responsible. This holds even if the dog has never shown aggression. In addition, the dog must be on a leash in public and under control, or fencing must restrict the dog from escaping the backyard. If you are bitten by a dog, you have the right to be compensated for your injuries.
Related Article by Sacramento Animal and Dog Bite Attorney Ed Smith
Sacramento Dog Bite Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento dog bite lawyer. Dog bites can be disfiguring and dangerous. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you can be compensated for all financial costs. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can reach me online too.
The National Association of Distinguished Counsel and the Million Dollar Advocates have both inducted me into their organization. The first is composed of the top tier of lawyers who offer legal excellence to clients. The second is composed of lawyers who have won over one million dollars for a client.
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Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/working-dog-military-growling-1781147/
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