Biting Dogs Breaking The Habit

by Samantha Matheny



The very first thing you must do to stop your dog from biting is identify what makes the dog uncomfortable. Knowing what is causing the problem makes it solvable. Next you need to figure out exactly what kind of aggression your dog is displaying. Yes, he bites, but is it out of fear or dominance?


If your dog is biting out of fear, he is doing it as a last ditch effort to make you see he cannot handle the situation he is in. Learn to recognize the signs of his panic. Anxious dogs all show the same signs; a tucked tail, a crouched position, ears lying flat against the head, and even urination. Once you see these signs, immediately remove your dog from the situation until he calms down. Do not try to cuddle or comfort him. It just reinforces being frightened and scared is the proper response.


Once he calms back down, go ahead and slowly bring him closer to whatever it is that scared him. Do not push him into doing anything he is not comfortable with. When he shows no signs of anxiety, reward him with lots of praise, cuddles, and even a treat. With time, the fear and anxiety will subside.


If your dog is biting out of aggression, he is showing you that he is the top dog. This can be a very risky situation if it is not controlled immediately. The best way to handle dominant, aggressive behavior is steady, regular obedience work, which will stress your authority over your dog. It only take two fifteen-minute sessions a day to make it clear to your dog that you are the boss, and that it is rewarding to do what you say. You can make this fact clear to him by rewarding him (with treats and generous praise) for obeying a command, and isolating him (putting him in 'time-out', either outside the house or in a room by himself) for misbehavior.


For more information on handling aggressive and dominant behaviors, as well as a great deal of detailed information on a host of other common dog behavior problems check out SitStayFetch.


Curious about learning more? Come to check out more articles at Mean Dogs and learn more about aggressive dogs and how to handle them.

Samantha is an ambitious young woman from west Michigan who is dedicated to finding a better way to live. She has a wide variety of interests and is always seeking new knowledge. Samanthas love of writing has lead her to become an author of e books and articles in hopes of helping people to live a better, healthier life.