Training an aggressive rescue dog can be a daunting task. The dog, obviously, needs to be trained not to bite. The behavior may not be allowed in the home anyway. However, there are some things that dog training tricks can help accomplish.
An important tip is to train the dog when it is still a puppy. Many dogs that are abandoned or rescued due to abuse, are considered untrained because of their history of attacking other animals. They may be fearful and exhibit aggression toward humans and other animals when they are still puppies. Therefore, socialization is key. Train the dog properly and show it affection. Once it has reached adulthood and it has mastered its new role as the pack leader, training should take place more appropriately with a knowledgeable trainer.
Training an aggressive dog should always begin by being gentle. Never use force or violence when teaching the dog. This could teach the dog that it can play the game and that the dog owner will not protect it. If you have raised your dog properly, it will not bite unless it feels threatened. Socialize it with other dogs, keep it comfortable in its environment and, when appropriate, use a “No” command.
Teaching an aggressive dog to walk on a leash is easier when it is in a training class. Dogs tend to learn better when they are being worked on rather than left alone to their own devices. If you purchase a dog from a reputable breeder, you should ask what training program the dog has undergone. It is best to choose a dog with a proven, beneficial, and humane training program.
Another useful tip is for the training session to begin and end with the dog’s sense of smell. When dogs are forced to sniff another dog’s body, most will quickly learn to avoid that dog because of its previous bite. Training the dog to have better self-control will make the dog less likely to bite in the future.
An aggressive rescue dog should not be forced to learn how to sit or stay down by using choke collars. Some owners use these collars when their dogs bite because they are frightened of future bites. But, the problem is that the dog learns not to anticipate the hit and gets excited when it senses danger.
You can teach your dog in class or at home. One of the easiest dog training tricks is called the five-minute walk. Begin by placing your dog in a large open area such as your backyard. Approach the dog and gently turn its head and ears towards your dog, followed by a low growl. After five minutes of this, begin walking. Do not run, but keep control and walk steadily.
To train aggressive canines that bite, start by ignoring the dog. Don’t pet or praise the dog. Instead, use a firm “no” and put your foot up in front of the dog, allowing it to see you. Repeat the process for ten times. The dog should see that you are firm and will not tolerate its behavior. Then you can start training your dog by playing with it, praising it, or teaching it new tricks.
When training aggressive canines, you may notice some behavioral problems. However, since these problems arise only after you have started training, you should never punish the dog, no matter how bad the behavior is. Rewards for positive behavior and attention for good behavior are the best methods of dog training.
If you are not comfortable with the idea of punishing your dog, you might want to consider using voice commands during training. For example, if your dog jumps on you, tell it “No!” and lead it away. This commands the dog that it has now been told not to jump on you. Your aggressive rescue dog may respond by either lowering its head to the ground, lowering its body to the ground, or chasing you around.
Dog training techniques for rescuing can help you and your dog to develop a better bond that will benefit you for years to come. Training aggressive canines does not have to be difficult or time-consuming. As long as you have enough knowledge and patience, training your dog can be done quickly and efficiently. As soon as you start using dog training techniques, you and your dog will both feel better for it.
