How to train your dog to be around other dogs (step by step)
Wendy Kruger, Dog behaviour and training specialist
Why does my dog attack other dogs?
My 4-year-old Husky recently attacked another dog while we were out on a walk, and I’m really worried about what to do next. I’ve always kept him on a lead, but he’s becoming more aggressive towards other dogs, and I’m not sure what’s causing it. Why is he acting this way, and what’s the best way to manage his aggression?
What our expert says
Lindsay Arliss
Dog behaviour and training specialist
There are many reasons for dogs attacking other dogs, and the best way to try and deal with this behaviour is to get support from a qualified professional. You’ll need help identifying the reason behind an attack, which is almost always emotional.
A dog that shows serious aggression is a potential risk to people and other dogs and should be trained to wear a muzzle whilst outdoors. You should also keep your dog on a lead and under control, and if they need any off-lead time, find a secure safe field and make sure that no other animals or people will be in it.
For many dogs this is a learned behaviour and may have been caused by fear, frustration, pain or a lack of socialisation when they were young. The more practiced their behaviour, the stronger it becomes, so they may not be scared anymore and in fact, they enjoy it. This could be why they continue to attack as it feels good to do so.
Dogs communicate using many visual signals, all of which are designed to avoid the need to use aggression, but if they cannot read other dog’s signals or show their own due to lack of social experience, then they could become aggressive.
A fearful dog can soon learn that showing aggression makes another dog approaching them back off or go away, and this makes them feel better, so by doing it more, they’re reinforcing that behaviour internally.
Some dogs may show aggression if they are approached when they have a valued item like their favourite toy or treat or are with their human. This could be a form of resource guarding.
If your dog’s behaviour has recently changed and they were previously sociable with other canine pals, you might need to take your pet for a vet check-up to make sure they’re not in any pain.
On rare occasions, a dog could attack another dog due to prey drive, such as hunting dogs mistaking smaller dogs for prey, especially if they are running around. This can be a challenging behaviour to rectify, so it’s best to contact a professional for advice and support.
If your dog is attacking another dog that lives in your home, you’ll need to seek professional advice. Separate the dogs as much as possible, to avoid any further attacks until you have support in place.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1996 covers all incidents of dogs out of control, so if there is a risk of someone getting injured, or feeling threatened by your dog, you must take action to manage their behaviour. The police can get involved and take your pet, which would be very stressful for all involved.
For more information on this topic, Lindsay Arliss recommends these articles:
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