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How to Calm a Dog During Aggression: Effective Methods and Tips
01.09.2024 06:10
Dogs, even the most loyal and friendly, can sometimes show aggression.
The reasons may be different, but it is important to understand how to act correctly in such a situation.
Incorrect actions can aggravate the problem and lead to undesirable consequences.
Understanding the causes of aggression
Aggression in dogs can be caused by many factors. One of the main reasons is fear.
When a dog feels threatened, its instinct for self-preservation makes it defend itself. Fear of unknown people, animals, or even loud noises can trigger aggressive behavior.
Another reason is territorial defense. A dog may show aggression when it believes that someone is invading its space, be it a house or a place on a walk. Understanding the source of aggression helps to choose the right tactics to calm the animal.
How to act in a moment of aggression
When a dog is showing aggression, the key is to remain calm. Sudden movements, shouting, or physical attacks can make the situation worse. The best solution is to avoid sudden movements and raising your voice.
A dog is able to sense the owner's emotions, and if the person is calm, this can help reduce the animal's stress level.
One effective method is to use commands that the dog knows and follows.
A simple command such as "sit" or "lie down" can redirect attention and reduce aggression. However, these commands must be practiced in advance and clearly performed by the animal.
Avoiding eye contact
When the dog is being aggressive, it is not recommended to look it in the eyes. A direct look is perceived as a challenge and can increase aggression. Instead, it is better to turn away slightly and speak in a calm voice.
Reducing eye contact can help reduce stress levels in the animal, especially if the aggression is fear-based.
Distraction methods
Distracting your dog's attention from the source of irritation is another effective way to calm the animal.
It is important to offer the dog something that will redirect its attention. This could be a favorite toy or a treat. It is also useful to use commands that are familiar to the dog and associated with positive emotions.
For example, you can offer the animal to perform simple exercises for which it will receive a reward. This will help defuse the situation and switch attention to something positive.
Prevention of aggression
To prevent aggressive behavior in dogs, regular training and education are necessary. Socialization plays an important role in the formation of a balanced character.
The dog should be accustomed to different situations, people and animals from an early age. It is important to teach it to control its emotions and obey commands.
If your dog shows signs of aggression, don't ignore them. It's better to contact a professional dog trainer who will help correct the behavior and offer individual methods of working with the animal.
