Dogs Biting Family Members

Aggression is the most difficult behavior for dog owners. Beyond the risks to humans a bite can be the fastest ticket to the animal shelter. Many dogs are put down-no questions asked.

• There are no simple solutions; harsh correction, punishment, and avoidance usually cause aggression to worsen. Still, eliminating every biter is simply unnecessary. Any dog, given the right circumstances, will bite. They don’t speak a human language; when they’re out of options their mouths are their tool of last resort.
  
  
  • Some aggression involves dogs who believe they outrank their people.
  • Other dogs “redirect” their aggression, meaning that the person getting bitten is not the intended victim.
  • We also see bites from chronically painful dogs.
  • Dogs with “play” aggression don’t inhibit their tendency to bite.
  • A whole lot of them are motivated by fear.
    
    
• Every case is different.


• Painful pets need treatment for their physical problems.
• Fearful biters can learn security if they are approached in non-threatening ways and rewarded for calm behavior.
• Many “master of the universe” personalities can be taught their proper place in the family “dog pack”.
• Dogs with play aggression can be a bigger challenge because they don’t recognize the line between rough housing and real violence.

• Be careful.


• Some dogs are truly dangerous.
• If your dog has a history of biting have her drag a 6 foot leash from her collar so you can get immediate control.
• Take a step back from the emotion before you act.
• Whether you keep your dog and treat the behavior or part company, you should know your options. Learn more by reading the article “Dogs Who Bite” on my website.

Keep the faith and don't give up. Contact me through my web site if you need individual help.