Dogs are generally quite gentle and friendly. They can protect their companions with fierce passion. You take a step toward them, and if you seem even the slightest bit threatening, the dog may attack.
Just like you, dogs don’t like to be interrupted when they are busy with a task. In our blog “How to Stop My Dog from Nipping My Guests,” we mentioned all the reasons your dog may act territorial and defensive in a crowd. The top reason is that they feel threatened. Your dog should never be reprimanded for such behavior because doing so may worsen the behavior.
Whether you got your dog from a breeder or an animal shelter, there may be some traumatic triggers from their past. Nature can also have something to do with it. If your dog comes from a line of aggressive dogs, this behavior can be passed on. This can be where their biting behavior stems from and the best way to train them not to bite is to take a patient and kind approach. This type of force-free dog training will remove old habits from their behavior and teach them how to interact with people without harming them.
Let’s begin:
1. Don’t Let Your Dog Roam Without a Leash
A dog without a leash gives people the impression that they are friendly. However, people might walk up to them and try to pet them. When someone approaches your dog, let them know that they need distance, and it is best not to approach. A growl or snarl will indicate that they are not comfortable, and it is best to get your dog away from what is upsetting them.
This type of behavior is hard to modify by yourself, which is why it’s better to address it with the help of a professional dog trainer. They know all the tricks on how to train dogs without reprimanding them.
2. Don’t Bother Them When They Are Occupied by Something
From eating to drinking, sleeping, and chewing on a bone, your dog does not like to be disturbed any more than you do you so, back off and let them do whatever they are doing in peace as long it is not harmful to your dog or your dog is causing damage.
3. Don’t Disturb Them During Feeding Time
Old school dog training suggests taking your dog’s food bowl away from them or petting them while they are eating, but this is the wrong advice. Would you like it if someone took your plate away from you in the middle of your meal? Or, would you want someone to pet you on the head during breakfast? Instead, walk by and drop an extra yummy treat in their bowl. Your dog may come to enjoy having you around while they eat.
4. Spot the Signs and Back Off
These are some signs that tell you your dog may bite if you get near them:
- Their body is stiff and tense
- The tail is straight up, tense, and held high
- Their nose is wrinkled and pulled back
- They bare their teeth
- Their neck hair is raised
- They are snarling or growling
5. Don’t Leave the Dog with an Unfamiliar Face
Has your dog has bitten you or someone else? Please don’t bring them around strange adults or children. Even during play, they might nip them because they are uncomfortable with how the child or stranger approached, touched, or even reached out to them.
6. Don’t Take a New Dog to a Park
If you have just become a pet owner, your dog might not be accustomed to socialization. Dog parks are high energy and can be very stressful. If your dog is not comfortable in this environment, a fight may break out, or your dog may redirect towards a person.
Are you are worried about your dog biting someone, contact a force-free dog trainer immediately.
For dog training in Miami, visit the website Dances With Dogs. This service offers pet training for dogs and cats. To know more about their services or to schedule an appointment, call on 786-299-1552.