You're probably dealing with leash aggression if your dog
snarls and lunges at squirrels, rabbits, other dogs, or cars. Fear or
frustration may be causing your dog to react to another dog. Dogs' leash
reactivity is a common behavioural issue. However, leash-reactive dogs can be
trained to have appropriate social skills, but it will take several training
sessions to get the behaviour under control.
What Is Leash Aggression?
Leash aggression, also known as leash reactivity, occurs
when a dog acts aggressively while tethered to a leash, frequently in response
to something in their surroundings. Dogs who are aggressive on the leash may
lunge, bark, or snap their jaw. It can happen suddenly, but dog owners may
notice warning signs before the leash aggression occurs. Dogs may appear
anxious or fearful just before lunging or barking.
It is critical to address this type of behaviour because it
can lead to problems. Dogs may injure themselves while attempting to break free
from their leash. And because others may label your dog as aggressive, people
and other animals may avoid spending time with your pet, causing loneliness. In
the worst-case scenario, reactive dogs may attack another animal or person,
resulting in legal ramifications.
What Causes Leash Aggression?
When tethered to a leash, even normally well-behaved dogs
can become reactive. Leash aggression is caused by three major factors:
1. Fear: Dogs may lunge or bark because they are afraid of
something happening around them. Bicycles, skateboards, and scooters moving
quickly past them can be frightening to dogs. They may be terrified of cars
speeding by. In fact, if you are stressed, your dog may become stressed as
well. Your anxiety will spread down the leash to your dog, making them nervous.
2. Frustration: Seeing dogs across the street may
excite your dog, only to frustrate them when you physically prevent them from
saying "hello." Dogs may experience physical pain as a result of the
leash holding them back, leading them to associate the leash with pain.
3. Prey drive: When they see an animal, such as a rabbit,
squirrel, or cat, their prey drive is activated. When dogs see an animal they
want to chase, they may begin to pull or lunge on their leashes. This is a natural
biological instinct that is most commonly seen in dogs with a high prey drive.
How to Stop Leash Aggression
A combination of dog training and an understanding of what
is causing the reactive behaviour can aid in the resolution of this dog
behaviour. Here are a few more suggestions:
1. Work on leash aggression on a regular basis. The solution
to leash aggression is a lifelong commitment to working on your dog's behaviour
with them. You'll have to be on the lookout for triggers as you walk your dog.
You must continue to positively reinforce good behaviour.
2. Put some distance between the dog and its triggers.
Choose a walking path away from cars if you know your dog reacts to them. Cross
the street or turn around if you see a dog down the sidewalk and know your dog
will react to it. Create as much space as possible between your dog and the
thing you know they will react to.
3. Use high-value treats to distract dogs. A high-value
treat may be enough to divert your canine companion's attention away from an
approaching dog. Carry dog treats with you on walks and during training
sessions.
4. Desensitize your dog to their triggers. Desensitization,
or teaching fearful dogs not to be afraid, is a popular training method. Play
videos of dogs barking or loud traffic at home. If your dog reacts to a
particular sound, such as the doorbell, record it and play it for them. This is
an excellent way to begin desensitizing dogs at home. You'll be able to go to
the dog park at some point, but don't rush into a face-to-face, head-on
confrontation.
5. Observe your dog™s body language. As a responsible
pet owner, the first thing you should do is observe your dog's body language to
determine what is causing their aggression. Examine your dog for signs of
reactivity, such as a stiff body, bared teeth, a lowered tail, and growling or
barking. When your dog behaves in this manner, look around to see what they're
reacting to.
6. Use positive reinforcement techniques. Shouting at
your dog can increase leash aggression because it makes dogs insecure and
fearful. Use positive reinforcement instead, and reward dogs for good behaviour
with treats, toys, pets, and playtime.
7. Consult with a veterinarian. A medical condition can
sometimes be the source of leash aggression. If your dog is ill or injured, he
or she may feel vulnerable. This sense of vulnerability can lead to increased
anxiety and aggressive behaviour.
8. Work with a professional dog trainer. You can work
on training at home on your own, but a professional dog trainer or veterinary
behaviourist can help. Many dog trainers have specialized training for dog
aggression and know how to help dog owners navigate it. Desensitization,
counterconditioning, positive reinforcement, and leash training are common
training methods. Keep training sessions to a minimum.
9. Think about introducing medications. In some cases, dogs
may require medication. Medication will not eliminate leash aggression, but it
will help your dog behave better. Consult your veterinarian about any
medications that may be suitable for your dog, and never give your dog human
medication.
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