My dog has aggression issues with other animals
I have a 2-year-old German Shepherd, and lately, he’s been getting really aggressive towards other animals. It started with small things – barking at dogs when we passed them on walks – but now it’s become more serious. The other day, he tried to attack a neighbor's cat, and I’m really worried it might escalate. I’ve tried to calm him down, but nothing seems to work. I’ve heard that some breeds are just more prone to aggression, but I’m not sure what to do about it. Has anyone dealt with something like this? What steps can I take to help my dog?
Comments
My dog, a mixed breed, had similar issues when he was younger, and it took a lot of patience to get him to stop being so reactive. One thing that really helped was gradually exposing him to other dogs in controlled environments, like during training classes or at a dog park where he was on a leash. Positive reinforcement is key – when he stays calm, reward him with treats or praise. Also, it might help to check out some professional advice online. I found this really informative article on aggression in dogs at https://paw-champ.com/ , which could give you more detailed strategies to try. Just remember, consistency and patience are the most important factors!
I’ve seen this happen with a couple of dogs I know. It's really challenging, especially when they’re aggressive toward other animals. From what I’ve heard, some dogs just need more socialization, and it’s a gradual process. But it’s always good to work with a professional trainer if it feels like things are getting out of hand. I think getting your dog used to others slowly and teaching them positive behavior might help. The situation might take some time, but with the right approach, it can get better. Hang in there!