Dealing With Dominant & Aggressive Dogs -
what our DVD is all about:
In my DVD I provide 3 1/2 hours of information
to help people solve their problems with dominant dogs and aggressive dogs.
This information is based on 45 years of experience training dogs. For the
last 30 years I have
studied
the
art
of
protection
training
dogs.
I was
a
police
K9 handler
for 10 years, and was chairman of the training committee for the WI police
dog association for a number of those years. I have bred German Shepherds
for police service work for 28 years. During this time I have bred over 350
litters of working
dogs. I have dogs from my kennel working in law enforcement, Search and Rescue
and competing in Schutzhund all over this country. No one I know in
the United States can make these claims.
Everyone has an Opinion:
I tell you these things for one reason. You found
this web page because you have a problem with your dog. You have also found
out that "Everyone has an opinion on how to solve your problem." You only need to use Google
for a few minutes to see this, or ask your neighbor or best friend. Everyone
thinks they know what you should be doing. The problem
is that very few people have the experience to back up their opinions.
Every year hundreds of thousands of dogs go through
obedience training. The vast majority of dominant dogs that
enter training classes come out of class just as dominant
as before they started. The
reason
for
this is that instructors and owners alike do not address issues of pack
drive and rank within the pack.
These instructors and pet owners underestimate
the genetic power of the "PACK DRIVE GENES" that flows through
the veins of a family dog.
Dogs, like wolves, seek to live in a family packs. A family pack can be one
dog living with his human family, or multiple dogs and
their human family.
When the average pet owner gets a new dog the
owner's first goal is to show the dog how much he likes the dog. This is
the absolute opposite
of how dogs think. When a dog meets another dog they will always establish
their rank with each other before they become friends and play (or fight)
with the new
dog.
Rank within the Pack:
Dogs instinctively try to establish a rank within
their family pack. The vast majority of dogs would rather not be a pack leader.
In fact, many become stressed when they are forced into that position by
a human pet owner that does not practice proper pack procedures.
Dominant
dogs are dogs that have problems with pack and rank issues.
This DVD was produced to help people analyze their
dog’s dominance and aggression problems. I provide the information
for them to come up with a solution to those problems. These solutions
include educating
the
owners
on pack
drive and rank drive.
Learning to be a Pack Leader:
Owners of dominant dogs don't have an option,
they must learn to become pack leaders. Unfortunately, many people are not
themselves
leaders
in their normal lives. Becoming a pack leader for some people is a foreign
concept. In my DVD I explain a logical protocol for these pet
owners to
follow that will result in their dogs' changing the way they
view their position in the family pack.
This DVD is a project I have been working on for
over 5 years. In my opinion it may be the most important training DVD I have
ever produced. More dogs are given up for adoption or euthanized every
year because of dominance and aggression problems than any other reason.
Not all of these dogs are salvageable but I believe the vast majority of
dominance problems can controlled so that those dogs can live a better life
with their
family pack.
The information in my DVD is going to help you
develop a road map to getting a grip on your dogs behavioral problems.
If you are not physically strong enough or don't have the temperament to
do the
work necessary to solve the problem I believe that I have provided you
the information needed to find a local person that is qualified to come
in
and help you.
Most behaviorists lack experience in dog aggression:
It is important to
point out that the vast majority of dog behaviorists are unqualified to
offer
advice on
dog aggression
and/or
dominance. This DVD
(and
the eBook
I am writing) provide enough information to help dog owners determine
if an individual is qualified to assist in these areas.
In fact, this DVD
should be used by behaviorists, professional dog trainers, and veterinarians
alike to learn how to handle their customers' problems.
Photo
by Jinn Sabarika spiralingdreams.com
The chapters in our
DVD:
1-The work that is expected of pet owners before they start this program.
2-
Sixteen different forms of aggression are identified and explained.
3- Four different targets of aggression are discussed
Aggression towards Owners
Aggression towards Family and Friends
Aggression towards Strangers
Aggression towards Other Animals
4- When Does Dominance Start?
A- Understanding
temperament in dogs and how it relates to dominance.
B -The role of genetics in dominance
1- How to
live with and handle a dominant puppy
5- A section
on EQUIPMENT needed to safely live with and train a dominant dog.
This is an extremely
important topic. It's one thing for a training aid to fail during
obedience training. It is 100% a
different thing for a training aid to fail during a handler attack
or during an episode of dog aggression.
6 - Living with a Dominant Dog.
A- The Ground Work to Becoming a Pack Leader
1 - The
importance of dog crates and how we use them in our home
B- The importance of Exercise as it
relates to dominance
1 - Dominant Dog Problems and walks
2 - How to deal with Animal Aggression on Walks
3 - The importance of a Protocol
for YOUR WALK - the walk is YOUR WALK
not the dog's WALK
2- This DVD is not a substitute for "Basic
Obedience training" **
If you don't have my Basic Obedience DVD you will need
to get it along with this DVD.
E- Feeding A Dominant Dog - how to
eliminate food aggression issues
7- How to break-up a dog fight without
getting hurt
A - How to Introduce a New Dog into
a home with existing dogs
B- Alpha
Rolls- what they are and why they are dangerous
If you are new to my web site I strongly suggest
that you read my Philosophy of Dog Training. I
also recommend that you read the article I wrote titled The
Theory of Corrections in Dog Training.In the opening of my DVD I make it clear that
working this video is not a substitute for Obedience Training your dog.
In fact I assume the people who get this DVD know and understand the work
in
my 4
hour
DVD
titled
Basic Dog Obedience. Obedience training alone is not the solution to
dominance and aggression problems. With that said, it is an important part
of the solution. While
I have seen hundreds of books that teach people how to train dogs, I have
not seen any that address "pack behavior" as it relates to obedience
training.
If your dog is becoming animal aggressive and
you want to learn how to control dog aggression this
DVD will help you.
If your dog pulls you down the street when it
sees another dog on a walk. This DVD will show you how to solve the problem.The main cause of dominance in dogs is
a lack of leadership in the family pack. This DVD teaches people how to become
a pack leader. Many people think this is accomplished by simply using force
in obedience training. These people are wrong. A connection with the dog's
mind is always necessary before force is ever used in training.
I can't tell pet owners all of the training equipment they
need for their dominant dog. That's because every dog is different. But with
this
said, there are certain things all dominant dog owners should have.
Prong Collars can come apart when not not put on properly. If a leash is clipped
to a Leerburg Dominant Dog Collar along with the Prong Collar, you will have
control of the dogs in the rare occurrence that the Prong Collar fails.
Dog Training is NEVER without risk of injury. Do NOT attempt these training
techniques yourself without consulting a professional. Leerburg Enterprises,
Inc. can not be responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
Photo
by Jinn Sabarika spiralingdreams.com
Testimonials on the Dealing with
Dominant and Aggressive Dogs DVD
Review 1 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
July 20, 2009
I have watched your DVD on Aggression and I am impressed. Everything you described and pointed out was exactly & precisely the way it is. I work with field dogs. I have an aggressive bitch. You helped me a great deal.
I am looking forward to staying up to date with these DVDs.
Thank you for your dedication to the Dog.
Chuck
Review 2 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
March 29, 2009
Ed,
I have a pack of 4 dogs, a female chow mix, a female shar-pei mix, a male St. Bernard mix and a male chocolate lab, all of who are rescues and all are spayed and neutered. First we had our chow mix and st. bernard mix, but when we added our shar-pei mix, we noticed our st bernard mix started to act dominant toward the chow mix. We were stupid and ignored the warning signs. I asked an equally stupid dog trainer about it and he said they were just sorting out pack roles and to leave them alone and let them sort it out. So, stupid me, I did. But when we brought our lab in the mix all hell just broke loose. They got into several fights in our yard and my husband and I were at a loss on what to do. We thought about getting rid of our st. bernard but I really didn't want to do that. I wanted to save the dogs, not pawn them off on a shelter. I started researching aggressive dogs and came across your site. After spending hours and days reading your articles I realized just how stupid I was to bring the lab into the mix while the st. bernard was showing dominance. The signs were right in front of my face!
I bought your video on dealing with dominate and aggressive dogs and I have learned so much about being a pack leader. I am working to show EVERY dog in my pack (because that's what I have) that I am the pack leader and that I control every aspect of their lives. I decide where they go and what they do. I now use crates when other trainers have told me it is cruel to put a dog in a crate for more than 3 hours. I have always been told that using corrections was mean, but I was just using a reward system with no punishment and my dogs thought it was a joke. I did not have their respect. I now have a happy, healthy, balanced pack. Before, my lab (neutered) would urine mark on everything inside and outside the house. He was never allowed in the house. Now, when he's out of his crate, he's everywhere I am. He hasn't marked at all because I haven't allowed him to do so.
I can understand what you mean about not all dog owners being able to be pack leaders. Our society today is all about making the dog like a "child" or "baby." And I was one of those people. My dogs ruled my life. I now rule theirs. And now my St. Bernard mix is submissive to me. I never thought he would submit to me. He now knows that ANY sign of aggression is not tolerated.
I just wanted to thank you for waking me up. You have really saved my pack. I now know my St. Bernard mix is male aggressive and may never be allowed to have any interaction with my male lab. I will not be bringing anymore dogs into my house. I am way over my limit. But I am able to manage them thanks to your methods. Just because you CAN have a dog doesn't mean you SHOULD have one, or two, or three, or four.
Christina
Review 3 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
March 3, 2009
I wrote awhile back that my 2 year old male German Shepherd had started becoming aggressive on walks towards other dogs that were aggressive towards him. You recommended the video on Dominant and Aggressive dogs which we purchased and viewed. I wanted to give you some feedback on the video. I learned some very good information and it turned out I was doing exactly what Ed says most owners do. I was doing a thousand little nagging corrections instead of a few correct ones. I didn't realize I was doing this though because I had never seen demonstrated the varying degrees of correction. What Ed called a "level 3" I would've called my level 9! I was afraid that using a hard correction with a prong collar could actually injure the dog. Seeing the demonstration was the most helpful thing on the whole DVD. I wish it had been in my Basic Obedience DVD... or was it and somehow I just missed it?
Now that I have stopped all the "nagging" and started giving just a few good corrections, his level of aggression and misbehavior has gone way down. We are seeing a great improvement when walking and going past dogs that we just about couldn't even walk past before because my dog would go nuts and start lunging and snarling. Now he is much more calm and sometimes he even ignores them!
Thanks for your help.
Stephanie
Review 4 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
May 27, 2008
Just had to tell you - the dominant dog collar is AMAZING!! It is such a tiny unassuming thing - but Otto knows just what it is and has settled right down on his walks. It seems to just quiet him somehow. The first time I took him out in it, he started jumping around and I just quietly lifted up as demonstrated in the videos - just enough to hold him still until he relaxed (a second or two). Where before he was pulling hard here, there and everywhere - we are now enjoying our walks together - I am able to quietly give an almost fingertip correction if he goes to the end of the leash, which he thinks he causes and is doing less and less often - and this all-important bonding time is working wonders already with the rest of our relationship.
Even though it is a choke collar, it never gets "stuck" as a chain would do - and releases immediately. Fitted properly, it stays at the top of his neck. With this collar, there is no need for the kind of hard choke-chain corrections over and over as I have had to do in the distant past obedience classes using "old" methods. This is quiet and non-violent. Once Otto saw the new "power" I had, the dink stuff just stopped!
Thank you!
Martie
Review 5 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
January 22, 2008
Mr. Frawley and staff,
I have been nothing but 100% satisfied with your DVD's, webpage,and tons of information.
We added a second dog to our family little over a year ago, to humans and a rescue 3 yr old female german shepherd mix, soft dog. Our puppy, 15 months, is a dominant male, dog aggressive pure bred german shepherd. After lots of guidance from our trainer, Carmen Childs of Manassas, we are learning so much from this DVD and wish we had had purchased it a long time ago.
We're making progress with our male, and are very determined to help him be the best he can be. I know it sounds sappy, but we had no clue how to manage him, and left obedience classes very frustrated, and ready to give up. This DVD gives me hope.
Thank you,
Deb Mercer
Review 6 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
November 26, 2007
I just wanted to email you to thank you for saving the life of my Lhasa Apso with your excellent training videos. We purchased the aggressive dogs dvd because we were on our way to kill our dog for attacking a child two times and thanks to your training advice, we have been able to obedience train her and save her life. She has responded very well. We did not use the "dominant dog collar" and we have used a prong, which does stimulate her and make her mad. At first, she looked at me almost with an evil eye like "what are you doing to me?" But, now, after just a little bit of training, she is on her way to rehabilitation. She is no longer allowed on furniture. She actually waits at the door for our command instead of darting out the door and attacking everything that moves. Also, last week, she accidentaly got free and stayed right in our yard because she is always attached to a leash and I guess she thought she was attached. It is amazing how well she has responded to your training. Thanks again for all your dedication and hard work in making the training videos. They are greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Melissa
(By
the way, the picture I sent you was BEFORE we started training her. She is no longer allowed on furniture)
Review 7 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Dear Ed,
I just purchased and watched your DVD on dominant and aggressive dogs. I
have a 10 year old female GS, who has a serious dog aggression problem.
As an academic psychologist, I know quite a bit about behaviorist principles
and have used them to train the dog on simple commands. And while I knew
that dogs were pack animals, I did not understand pack behavior, nor did
I understand how one establishes oneself as the alpha member of the pack.
I consulted with an animal behaviorist about the dog aggression problem,
and while she gave me some good behaviorist tips, she didn't explain pack
behavior and the role it plays in this problem. At any rate, your video
showed me that I have made many mistakes over the years in how I handled
the dog (who is extremely gentle with humans, very playful, and very mellow
in many respects), to establish and maintain her dominance (such as letting
her choose which way to go when we went on "her" walks, walking
ahead of me, marking her extended territory on our walks, going down stairs
and through doors first, etc.). I have started to use the techniques you
describe and can already see some changes in her behavior.
Your web site is a great resource.
Thanks, Jeanne S
Review 8 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Hello Ed -
I want to start out by saying I really enjoyed your video
(Dealing with Dominant Aggressive Dogs) and really appreciate you sharing
your knowledge. I was one of the "dumb" people who, after listening
to Cesar's advice, put my head and hand in my dogs food bowl while he was
eating to see if my dog viewed me as a Pack Leader. Luckily I was,
for the most part, prepared for what happened next (also from watching
Cesar's shows) and didn't get too badly injured. I grabbed my
dog, an 85lb. Doberman, by the collar and pinned his head to the ground
until he calmed down. Being a female, this was a strenuous fight
for me and I walked away with some body aches and bruises; but again,
luckily, that's all I walked away with. I, since then, became familiar
with you and learned, as a result, that I should have NEVER done something
like that and it was erroneous for Cesar to give that advice for proving
whether pack structure was established with your dog. And, as a result,
I now have aggression issues with my dog and have upset the pack
order. Your video will help me, I'm sure, to combat the newly
surfaced problems since we never give our dogs very much room to get out
of hand and since we are determined to nip this problem in the bud before
it escalates. I know this is bold advice, but I would really reconsider
offering his products to your customers. Thank you for listening
and, once again, I am very appreciative of your knowledge.
Sandra
Review 9 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Ed:
I just finished watching your video on Dominant and Aggressive Dogs and
I have to say it has to be the best video I have ever seen. I have a very
hard male GSD that has has issues with dominance and aggression.
He is from the German lines of Troll and Minx so I am sure you know the type
of dog this is. I was fortunate to find a trainer/behaviorist who has a philosophy
very similar to yours and who handled the training very similar to the way
you do. I was very inexperienced with this type of dog. The trainer came
to my home weekly and taught me how to become the pack leader and to get
control of this dog. The dog was muzzled and worked in a prong collar for
a long time. He was taken off his front feet many a time. We have started
some bite work and he looks to me for direction. He recently passed his TT
(Temperament Test) which was sponsored by the GSDCA. Without the training
that I received this dog would of probably been destroyed. I have gained
his respect and there is not anything that this dog would not do for me.
At 98 pounds he is still a handful but being firm, calm and consistent pays
off. I just wanted to thank you for this video. I will be recommending it to
others.
Belinda D
Review 10 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Hi Mr. Frawley,
I'm sure you remember helping my wife and
I with Max. He is the giant schnauzer that attacked my wife several months
ago. I thought you might be interested in an update. We did get Max neutered
even at 2 1/2 years old. I figured it couldn’t hurt. We
followed your instructions and your training DVD's and equipment. We worked
with Max a lot, not giving him and inch. I am happy to report there has been
no further incidents of aggression or even a slight indication. My wife
takes Max on runs with her and he seems to be protective of her. When she comes
home he is glad and excited to see her. In the past if I would physically
shove or push Max he would growl. Now I do it often which he now interprets
as play time and gets excited and wants to wrestle. I can hardly believe
this is the same dog that at one time I thought I may have to put down. My
wife has lost much of her fear with him and she gives him a lot of attention
which he loves. When in the house his place is laying on the floor between
my wife and I and he wants to be petted by us both. I cant believe this transition. I
know I will never trust Max 100% but he has been great and seemingly is a great
dog. I hope and I do think it will continue.
Thank you again for your help.
Al and Ruth
Review 11 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Ed,
I received your video on Dominant and Aggressive Dogs.
It is great! I made my girlfriend sit down and watch it with me to help get
us both on the same
page. She immediately saw the common sense approach and has stopped being “trained” by
our dog! She use to brag to people on how the dog looked to her for nurturing
and understanding; BS!! he knows that I expect him to behave and the source
of my affection lies in being a good citizen in the home and field. She thought
that my (taught by you) methods were cruel. Hearing it from you (the expert)
first hand gave credibility to kennel use, proper corrections and fairness
with the dog.
Do you know what guys like Dr. Phil learn to deliver
positive marital results like that? Far more than you charge for your DVD’s! You’re
leaving money on the table Ed!
Thanks for all you do, your incredibly well done DVD's
and your awesome operation, Matt
Review 12 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Ed,
I just got my copy last night and I've reviewed it a bit.Home Run, Ed! "Opinions should be backed by experience" -
Man, when someone has the balls to say that early on in a video, you're off
to a good start!A lot of information packed into one DVD. It'll piss off the poser's/ behaviorists/
trainers that can't back up what they say - and it's going to smarten up a
lot of owners and send them in the right direction to a trainer that has the
background and experience to actually work with dogs that have this problem.
Used correctly, this can save some of those dogs with Dominance problems and
maybe keep some folks from getting bit down the line.And the part about breaking up a dog fight is nice to see actually laid out
where people can see the proper moves.
Will
Review 13 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Good Morning Ed,
I posted this on the boards but wanted to thank you personally for the Dominant
Dog DVD and Dominant Dog collar. I received both on Friday and have watched
the video twice already.
I really appreciated the explanation of the types of aggression. This is exactly
what I needed. Junior has exhibited 2, possibly 3 of those (fear, territorial
especially and possibly dog/male aggression though he doesn't act precisely
like you demonstrated but I will work as though he has). You have said these
can be
mostly arrested by vigilance and training. I admit I have done things incorrectly.
I got it and am ready to move on. I have also tried the collar just in his
work at home in the yard (not on a walk yet) and I already see him responding
well to it, where he had really begun to ignore the prong (guess I am not strong
enough to do a level 7).
You said in the video you wanted feedback. I have never been the best at making
myself clear but fortunately, you are really good at it and as a result, I
have learned so much already. I am actually looking forward to all the work
that I have ahead of me. THANK YOU for your videos, your site and your boards!!
Crystal
Review 14 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Hi, I ordered your video on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive dogs. I ABSOLUTELY
love it!!! I received it today and put your methods to use immediately. I can
already see a change in my male, I can't imagine how he'll be in the long run.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this wonderful video.
Emily B
HF Gunner Vom Ramhausen
Review 15 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
This is an AWESOME DVD!!! I have to say that first. I purchased
your Dealing with Dominate and aggressive dogs and boy was it worth every penny.
I had written you months back with a problem that I was having with a multi
dog household. I am a professional trainer in Los Angeles and I wanted to take
the time to tell you why as a dog owner and a dog professional that i think
your DVD's are the best around.
First, I would like to say , if anyone is thinking of buying these tapes, do
it. Not only are they packed with valuable information, they are very straight
forward and easy to comprehend. If you own a puppy or adult dog they should be
in your library of training tapes. Period!
Second, as a professional in the field, I found that the information is right
on the money. I had a rank and pack problem that I have solved in 2 months from
teaching to proofing. I did exactly what the DVD told me to do. I identified
the problem, changed my way of thinking, applied the information, added the distraction
and proofed the work. And guess what, it worked. I used the aggressive DVD in
conjunction with the e-collar DVD and I could not be happier.
I lived with a problem for 10 yrs, with territorial aggression targeted to other
dogs and now he walks by with NO problem.
Ed, I want to say thank you. Thank you for providing real, solid, information.
I like the no BS approach, and the fact you don't sugar coat obedience. I am
grateful that I found your site and I will be purchasing your DVD's till I own
all of them. Drive and focus is next.
Not only do I thank you, but so do my Dogs!
Dee
Los Angeles
Review 16 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Dear Ed:
I’ve just added Leerburg’s, "Dealing with
Dominant & Aggressive Dogs" and "Electric Collar
Training for Pet Owners," to my library. The quality and clarity of
Leerburg dog training Video’s and DVD’s is the best I’ve
seen. I own, Cave Canum Catahoula Kennel’s in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
I train almost, every day and now after thirty-years I know what works and
don’t. Leerburg training works and if I consistently apply the methods,
my dogs become 100% better, fast. Leerburg is a mountain of dog behavioral
instruction and equipment. When I buy from them, it’s not a cost, it’s
an investment. Ed Frawley and the other trainers, don’t bite their tongues
about dog training. The truth comes, flat out simple and direct, exactly what
I expect, exactly what I want and exactly what I need.
Thanks again for your fine work,
Sid C
Review 17 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Ed,
I just would like to thank you for your DVDs on Obedience
and Dominance. They were extremely informative and they will definitely make
me a better dog owner. Will recommend it to every dog owner I know.
Thanks again,
Maria L
Owner of a (Stubborn)German Shepherd and a Schnauzer.
Review 18 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
I received my DVD yesterday I have seen it
3 times now. Like Ed says you have to watch it over and over. It is very
useful to me since
I like
to help out aggressive pit bulls because they are my breed of choice and I
run into so many people who "trainers" can't help. Probably scared.Any way I love this DVD and recommend it especially if you just got
a puppy that is of a strong breed or have a dominant puppy. It teaches you
how to raise them so they don't end up a problem.
Thanks ED!
Review 19 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Mr. Frawley:
Today brings great news. I have been all through your web site
and even purchased your videos. I have been working with my4 shepherds of which 3 are male and 2 intact. Because I made
so many mistakes in the beginning, the aggression grew between them and ultimately
dog fights ensued. I tried trainers, but to no affect. I knew it would be up
to me and my relationship with my dogs to solve these issues. I found your
web site and the real work began. I continue to access your web site and watch
your videos again and again. I’ve been able to manage the
aggression and exercise them together and I just wish all dog owners would
take the time
to get the correct information and follow through. I have had so much success
that my confidence is stronger and the dogs definitely pick up on that energy. Just thanks for all
the information.
Jeanne F
Review 20 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Hi Ed,
I just wanted to drop you a quick note and thank you for providing me (the
public) with so much excellent information on dogs and training. I have a two
year old female (spayed) Belgian Terv who is a dominant dog. I read through
everything you had on your web site and then purchased your Basic Obedience
and Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dog DVDs. They are excellent! Yay!
Finally some good, helpful information that answers the problems I'd been having. Using your methods has made a big difference in both my understanding my dog
and changing her behavior - and mine. : )Thank you Ed, for being so generous and having a web site that gives away so
much valuable information. Your DVDs are excellent. I like the format and the
way you present the information. I'll be recommending your products on my blog
and to everyone I come into contact with!
Best Regards, Marisa
Review 21 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Hi, I ordered your video on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive dogs. I ABSOLUTELY love it!!! I received it today and put your methods to use immediately. I can already see a change in my male, I can't imagine how he'll be in the long run. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this wonderful video.
Emily
Review 22 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
I would like to tell you that I received in the mail the other day, the dominant and aggressive nylon training collar along with the DVD on aggressive and dominant dogs. I own a 140 lb. dominant, animal/handler aggressive German Shepherd and I have to tell you that after watching the video and using the collar, my dog has changed his tune considerably. He has always been dominant since I adopted him from a so-called GSD rescue at one and a half years old. When we first got him, he was play-aggressive with my husband and not me and I believe the dog saw my husband as a litter mate and not a leader. I am the Alpha in our home and I don\'t allow the dog to get away with anything or get anything for free. He earns everything he gets from me but getting my husband on the same page is almost impossible. Unfortunately for my dog, he was originally trained by an in-home trainer from Canine Counselors who did a poor job six-hundred dollars later. She was lazy with him and tried to force our dog to meet and greet other dogs which I didn't approve of. Although Koda obeys commands from me, he is sometimes reluctant to do them and slow to obey them. That makes me very frustrated and he senses that. I learned the hard way not to use hard corrections on him and I have made several mistakes in correcting him and he certainly let me know!!! I tried dominating him several ways by staring at him which now I know is really stupid and a good way to get bitten. I also tried to force him to lay down and almost got bitten then too. He growled at me one day and after reading your site, I lifted him up by his cheeks, stared him in the eyes and told him firmly, "NO". After that, he didn't want to come near me. He has since gotten over that and although he is still slow to respond to cues, he does walk on the leash much better and before when we walked by dogs behind fences he would attempt to drag me over so he could fight through the fence, he doesn't do that any longer. Since using the collar, he has learned that getting the air choked out of him is very unpleasant and now we walk by the very same dog behind the fence and Koda will look but he keeps on walking. I have to say that I am not afraid of this dog and not afraid to use that choke collar and I refuse to own an animal/handler aggressive dog. I told my husband that if it came down to it, I would choke the dog until he passed out if it means stopping the dog from attacking another dog, me or another person. If I have to choke the dog to death to save someone else, I will. It would kill me to do that but I can't have that happen. I really enjoy your site and I am studying to become a dog trainer but I have to tell you, there is so much to learn and remember and I don't want to make a costly mistake in my corrections. People stop me when I'm walking my two dogs and ask me if I am a dog trainer and I tell them I'm in training. They want me to give them advise and I always tell them to find a really good reputable trainer. Steer clear of Petsmart and Petco for training. They want me to train but I am not ready. Thank you for putting so much information on your site. I believe your site has more dog training information than just about any site I have come across yet. You're great and you have some beautiful dogs!!!
Review 23 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Dear Ed,
I just purchased and watched your DVD on dominant and aggressive dogs. I have a 10 year old female GS, who has a serious dog aggression problem. As an academic psychologist, I know quite a bit about behaviorist principles and have used them to train the dog on simple commands. And while I knew that dogs were pack animals, I did not understand pack behavior, nor did I understand how one establishes oneself as the alpha member of the pack. I consulted with an animal behaviorist about the dog aggression problem, and while she gave me some good behaviorist tips, she didn't explain pack behavior and the role it plays in this problem. At any rate, your video showed me that I have made many mistakes over the years in how I handled the dog (who is extremely gentle with humans, very playful, and very mellow in many respects), to establish and maintain her dominance (such as letting her choose which way to go when we went on "her" walks, walking ahead of me, marking her extended territory on our walks, going down stairs and through doors first, etc.). I have started to use the techniques you describe and can already see some changes in her behavior.
Your web site is a great resource.
Thanks.
Jeanne
Review 24 on Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive Dogs
Several months ago I e-mailed you regarding our GSD Toby a 2 year old male. At the time we had several issues. He was defending the house against anyone coming from the outside. Was aggressive towards strangers and generally exhibiting poor behavior. We went through your web site reading several articles. Purchased and reviewed the obedience, aggressive and e-collar tapes. As a result we took the following steps:
1) Toby no longer sleeps in the bedroom or in the bed. He sleeps in a specific section of the house only.
2) We are clear on who is in-charge - he follows out doors and down stairs. He is no longer allowed on furniture. He eats by himself and is not allowed in the dining room when we are eating.
3) He goes through obedience training nearly every day - sit, stay, drop, come, heal. We use YES to praise and NO to correct. The e-collar is used as early in the session as possible to help him connect NO with a correction. Later in the session it is not needed.
4) Weekends he gets some good work in a field and off leash if conditions and his behavior warrant.
5) We changed his diet from Iams kibble with a mixed can to an all natural kibble designed for GSD. He did not like the raw diet although we tried it.
I am writing because my parents visited over the weekend. They have not seen Toby for six months. They were amazed at the changes. He use to scare them to the point where he was in a crate from most of their visit. He is well behaved. No longer barks at guests. Listens when commanded even with the distraction of guests. The change has been terrific. Much of it are the steps we took above all learned form you. Some of it is his age. After he crossed two years he has started to mature.
Thanks so much for all your help. We are going to start him back on SAR training. Something we thought he would not be able to handle. He has done so well with obedience we are going to slowly start to introduce SAR sessions and see how he does.
Douglas
Dominant & Aggression
Issues
A Dominant Dog that bites it's owner:
It is midnight and I came across your site. My 2 yr old lab is being put
down tomorrow and I am having a very difficult time with this. Approximately
4 months ago my dog began showing signs of aggression. He almost bit my friend
in the face at my home-it was fast and unexpected. I dismissed it as did she
as though she spooked him (she approached him from behind). About a month and
a half ago a lady was walking by and began to pet the dog (we have an underground
fence) when she got up to leave he nipped at her face and did scratch her.
Then a month ago a little boy (10) came into my garage when the dog was eating-
I did not witness this , I just heard him start crying. The dog did break the
skin on his stomach (no stitches were required). I was very discussed over
this and wanted the dog gone then but my kids became so upset that I thought
well I'll give it another try. Well, this past Saturday I heard a yelp and
aggressive barking and growling- I ran out side to see the meter guy on the
side of the property and said that the dog bit him. I made him come in and
luckily the guy had a thick coat on that the dog did not break the skin. My
husband and I have discussed this and I know that the dog is unsafe. My boys
are 10 and 7 and we live in a neighborhood with tons of children that constantly
running through my yard and coming in my home. I called the humane league and
they wouldn't take him I even enquired about a rescue and they also declined.
He is a lovable dog to us but he is big @ 150lbs and intimidating I'm nor frightened
for myself but I am with my kids and others in the neighborhood. Am I doing
the right thing? I feel so bad about this.
Thanks, Pam
Ed's comments on the dog bite:
I hate to say this but the dog is probably dominant because of the way you
lived with the dog. I am not trying to place blame, just state facts. These are pack relate issues. If people want to fix them
they can be fixed. This does not mean the dog will be able to be loose and
unattended with strange
people. But it does mean that they can be controlled and with proper handling
these kinds of things are less likely to happen.You can read the article I wrote titled DEALING
WITH DOMINANT DOGS. I just finished a training DVD titled
DEALING WITH DOMINANT AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS I have a feeling that this is too late for your dog. Too
bad.
Giant Schnauzer that needs work on dominance aggression problem:
I have a two year old Giant Schnauzer "MAX".
I got him at three months old. He has developed aggressive tendencies toward
me at times. He
will go several weeks/months and is on his best behavior. Then something will
happen
that triggers him. He will growl aggressively and did bite me on one occasion.
He has NOT been dog aggressive other than barking and has not attacked other
dogs even when the opportunity has been there. If you physically push him
he becomes agitated and will begin growling. He is very smart and has gone
through
a basic obedience class which he did very well. I am considering neutering
him but I afraid at just over two years I may be to late. I do like this
dog and I do want to keep him. Any suggestions.
Thank you,
Al
Ed's answer:
Al - you need the DVD Dealing with Dominant and Aggressive dogs. Also get
the dominant dog collar and study how to use it. Owner's response:Thank you, you did explain the difference collars in the
video and after another review it the difference between a normal chock collar
and a dominant dog collar was clear. We did not have the leerburg dominant collar prior
to the video. We had nylon show slip collar from PETSMART - it broke. It did
exactly what you said it would do, but after Max was being lightly corrected,
he
started to
attack,
I
lifted
the
front
feet
off
the ground,
Max
is as tall
as I am on his hind feet and he still continued his attack, my husband grabbed
the leash to pull Max higher and the PETSMART COLLAR
broke. My husband and
I were both bit, not seriously but enough for us to get our act together.Al & I are committed to being Pack
Leaders and I was so frustrated when we had to submit, and Max went directly
to his crate.
I gave him about 15 minutes
then started to work with him again. He was perfect, no pausing his actions
were deliberate.We called this morning to order all the proper equipment, and we watched the
video again to make sure we are both focused on our aggressive dog and that
we stay safe.We did go to a professional trainer who had done the obedience training and
she gave us two options. The first option, when Max growled grab his muzzle,
squeeze it shut until Max submits. She said Max needed to be dominated, she
did it and he went right to the ground. Max did as predicted, bit the hell
out of me. The next advise was to put the dog down he was too aggressive. I
didn't believe we couldn't control Max and we found your web site.We do not let Max run loose in the house, sleep on the furniture or in our
bedroom. Max has his own crate in the living room. What I noticed in your video
was that your dog crates are out of the living space and in the basement. In
the winter Max's crate is in the house, we stopped leaving the door open.My question is, should we move the crate from our living
space and put it in the garage?
Thank you in advance,
Al and Ruth
Ed's response:
It is my opinion that the dog training
equipment sold by these large pet store chains (Petsmart
and Petco) are inferior products. In my opinion
they do not sell quality products. They are more interested in selling at a
cheap "price point" and not selling quality products. Obviously you found this out when your Petsmart collar broke
and you were bitten.
This obedience trainer you were dealing with needs a lot
more training herself. Her advice was completely DANGEROUS. This is more common
than one would think. Very few dog trainers really understand dominance and
aggression. I have no problem with this until they start to hand out bad stupid
dangerous advice like this.
I need your guidance and advice. I may be dealing with a dangerous dog but
I have never thought our dog would act like this after all of this time.
I have a four year-old neutered, Dalmatian mix. He may have pit bull in him.
We
rescued him as a puppy from a shelter. He is a very good dog that has no
bad habits. He is an inside dog and will only go outside briefly, so he has
spent
a lot of time with our family (myself, husband and 12 year old son). He has
never been allowed on the furniture or slept in our room. He has had a full
back yard to roam in with a doggy door and plenty of regular walks. I have
been the consistent handler with Joey (dog). I have taken obedience training
with a pit bull has a teenager and have used some of the skills I learned
then on Joey. I have also taken him to a obedience class to freshen my skills
and
teach him to be around other dogs to socialize him. I started with a choke
collar for training but he would only listen if it was on him. If he did
not have that collar on or if you are not within reach of it he would not mind
or listen to commands. He is about 60 pounds and I had a hard time controlling
him and would not listen if other dogs were around or he would bolt if he
saw
a cat so I switched to a prong collar. He appears to be a very fearful dog
and he does not do well with strangers. He barks a lot but has never bit
anybody. Nine months ago I had a baby. During my pregnancy I had to slow down on the
walks and activity with him. The only concern that I had was him not being
careful around the baby because he would run as fast as he could around the
house if excited and I worried that he may step on the baby by accident so
I taught him that that behavior was no longer allowed inside the house. He
has always been a very lovable, happy dog so biting was not something that
I worried about. I introduced him of the idea of the baby earlier on. With
smells, etc., but with limitations as well, for example, he could not sleep
in her room. We recently moved just after the baby was born. Things were
just fine up until a couple of months ago that he started growling at her
when she
came near him in her walker. I immediately yelled at him and told him no.
I was visible very upset by this and I got really loud and I told him to
lay down and motion the command with my hands. He does not move. I reach down
to
force him to lay down and he snaps at me and shows his teeth. I lost it
and
grab the scruff of his neck and drag him to his bed and force him to lay
down. I started doing research on and found your web site. I started
changing things
immediately and realized that I was partly to blame for his behavior. He
no longer walks out the door first. He no longer has his food anytime he
wants it and he is fed last. I also noticed that he would not lay down for
me the
first time I asked so I started working on giving him commands for his
food, etc. I worked on both of us. Things seemed to be improving. He seemed
to
enjoy
her. Wagging his tail when she was around and licking her hands, etc.
He never avoids her (which I wish he would) and seemed to want to be around
her. Now
its months later... she now walks (she is nine months old). I was in
door
way to my sons bedroom talking with him and my daughter walks into my sons
bedroom
then Joey tries to enter. (It has been an on going battle to get my 12
year old son to take this new direction with Joey and take it seriously.
I will
catch him allowing Joey in his room or allowing Joey to literally sit
on my sons lap while he is on the floor, something he has allowed Joey to do
as a
puppy...etc, etc.) I motion for Joey to get out of the room (my daughter
is next to him) and he backs up and knocks her over then sits on her. My
daughter is now face down with Joey on her back while she is bent over. Is
entire
weight
is on her and his back feet are off the ground. He does not listen to
me
when I snap my fingers and motion and tell him to leave. When I went to
physically move him from being on top of her, he snaps and gets my hand. He continues
to show his teeth and I hit him and grabbed the scruff of his neck and dragged
him outside. His teeth broke the skin slightly on my hand and bruised it
real good. My daughter is fine. I have also noticed that he has started to
be aggressive
with my sisters dog that he has always gotten along with just fine,
as well. He tries to fight her (the dog) and has even urinated on her ( she
is a Jack
Russell). Joey has never displayed aggressive behavior to my husband
which has never been that involved with him or my son, but then again they
have
never tried to discipline Joey either. My husband put the food down
to Joey which
Joey has never tried to act aggressive around food with any of us,
ever. My daughter ran over to the food before we could grab her and started
to
play
in it. Joey growled very deep and I ran over to grab my daughter.
I told him to go lay down and he snapped at me. You could have heard his jaws
close
through
out the house. He only seems to challenge me when I am angry and
trying
to give him commands. It makes me so angry when he challenges me that I
want to hit him but I didn't. He hesitated to lay down but finally did.
I don't
want
to get rid of Joey. He has been apart of our family. What are my
options? Is his behavior changeable? We live in the desert and keeping
him outside is not
an option. Secluding him to a separate room with the door closed
does
not seem like a far option either. Can his behavior be changed? Will
he ever look at
my daughter as somebody that is superior in the pack or is the
risk too great?
Why is he challenging me now? Is my only safe option to get rid
of him? My kids safety come first but if there is a way to keep him without
putting anybody in harms way, I am open to it.
Thank you,
K
erri
Ed's answer to this very serious dominant dog problem:
You have a dangerous dominant dog. If you don't change the
way you live with this dog, you risk your daughter being attacked. There are so many things going on here that I don't know
where to start.It sounds like a major problem is with the 12 year old child
not following directions. My opinion is that this is one of those times where
a child needs
a serious SWAT on their BUTT to get his attention. That and no TV or games
for a week.You need to read the articles I wrote on Preventing
Dog Bites in Children.The dog needs to be trained with a prong
collar or
a dominant dog collar and you need to learn how to effectively
use them.YOU NEED A DOG CRATE !!!You are on the right track in shocking this dog when he does stupid things
- but your corrections need to be jacked up to a higher level. Read the article
I wrote titled THE THEORY OF CORRECTIONS IN DOG TRAINING.
Needless to say you desperately need the information in this
DVD.
Question on a Rott that tried to bite the owner's face:
Dear Ed,
We have your Basic Dog Obedience DVD, and have followed through on basic
training. Our dog is a male Rottweiler,age now 18 months. He was neutered
at 6 months.
We do belly rubs, and do not allow him to guard his toys or food.
Last week, the dog made a low growling noise when my husband said, "kisses" and
put his face towards the dog. I thought Zeus looked afraid, and since we
had not done this in months, since he was a pup, we put him on strict training.
When Zeus was 6 months, he made this low growl , when a stranger started
to pet his face. I thought it was because I had not introduced her properly,
as a
friend of mine. It happened again 6 months later, same situation, the person
put their hands on the sides of his face (gums). I thought he doesn't like
strangers touching his face. A few months ago, someone who played with him
frequently, put his face towards the dog, and he snapped at him. No, unfortunately
I had another excuse, I thought because our friend had been drinking, the
dog didn't know him. He loves greeting people, wants to play, but," don't
get close to my face buddy."
OK, now I know we have a problem. We put a mesh muzzle on him, and very gently
stroked him, he was not making eye contact, and we encouraged eye contact,
praising, petting his face. When I put my face a little close, he backed
away.
I got out some dog biscuits, and put one partially in my mouth. Zeus loves
biscuits, and I encouraged him to take it, He did. I did this 4 more times,
and then I put my face closer, and kissed him on nose. When I went to put
my face close to his again, I was at a side angle coming towards him, and
he attempted
to bite me, and would have succeeded, if not for the muzzle.
Why is the dog afraid of faces? My husband is very concerned that if I should
accidentally get to close to his face, for what ever reason, grooming, bending
to catch an object, who knows, he will bite me. I don't know how to proceed.
How do I show him that he can trust our faces? He does all commands willingly,
but something is wrong. We'd very much appreciate your advise, and thank
you for your time.
Sincerely,
Mickayla
Ed's answer on how to deal with the aggressive Rott:
You are making too many mistakes here. Unintentional ones but a mistake is
a mistake with a dominant dog
It is a huge mistake to let anyone
touch your dog. Dogs are pack animals and strangers are not part of their
family pack.
NO ONE TOUCHES MY DOGS – NO
ONE. Putting your face down to a dominant
dog is a huge mistake. But then you both found this out – at least
he did not strike you in the face (he could have and you would not have
been quick enough
I guarantee
you)
A cloth muzzle is not good enough for this dog. You
can still get bit with a cloth muzzle – I show how this
happens in my new DVD on dominant dogs (more about this is a minute)
Putting a “cookie” in
the dogs mouth was a HUGE mistake. In the eyes of the dog you were REWARDING
it for what
he was doing. What
you should
have done was have a dominant dog collar and
a leash on the dog and USED IT!! Read
how this is used on my web
site.
Dog training is part of dealing with dominant dogs. It is not the
only solution. In fact it is a small part of the solution.
You need to get the new DVD I just
released titled DEALING WITH DOMINANT AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS, you can
read about what’s in it.
DO NOT PUT YOUR FACE NEAR THIS DOG
AGAIN. I have a saying “pick your
fights and don’t pick a fight you will lose”
You need to be using a dog crate – and possibly a remote trainer (this
will teach you how) – I
use a Dogtra 1700 on my personal dog.
You can fix this is you do things
correctly. If you don’t
make these changes you will be attacked by this dog. It's
not a matter of IF THIS WILL HAPPEN – it's only a matter of WHEN WILL
IT HAPPEN.
Hi I've found the information on your site to be very good (and
straight to the point, no round-about's!).
Here's what I'd like some help understanding though... Is it possible to train
a male dog (GSD in particular, that is already well housebroken) to not urine
mark (urinate all at once in one place, say, in the backyard, instead of
over every vertical object around the neighborhood,perhaps?)? If so, how
would this be done? I would think that correcting him when he goes to mark
on things, during a walk for example, would confuse the dog? Should this
sort of training begin somehow before the dog begins marking?
I would think that on-duty working dogs (and service dogs for that matter),
would be trained to not mark...
Thanks, hope you can help.
Ed's answer regarding male dog:
Yes this is not difficult. It is simply an obedience command.
The dog is not PEEING he is MARKING - they are two different things related
to dominance. It is explained in the DVD I just finished titled DEALING
WITH DOMINANT AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS.
I can only imagine the amount of email you receive every day so please pardon
my ignorance. I bought both your Obedience training and Dominant Aggressive
videos as a compliment to the existing training that I was already giving my
two dogs and it has made an impact and further improvement in their behavior.
The videos actually trained me more than the dogs but did not specifically
address a question I have. Occasionally, my stubborn, dominant GSD t's off
or stands over my other dog in a dominant manner. It does not happen often
maybe once every few months. He instantly stops when I say no and comes to
my side. I try my best to practice a rank order among them and to establish
myself as a pack leader. Is it possible to eliminate this behavior? Have I
not established myself as a strong enough leader? Is this something to lose
sleep over? I do not expect my dogs to be robots but I do expect them to recognize
me as their leader and mind me. Can you point me in the right direction as
to where I may find this information on your site? I have learned that with
my dogs, issues need to be nipped in the bud at the first hint of a problem.
I apologize for taking your time and appreciate your attention.
Sincerely,
Faustino
Answer on Dominant Behavior of Dogs:
First I want to thank you for your business. I appreciate it.This is normal behavior. Let me use the example of my herd
of 4 horses. They have their pecking order but they NEVER stop establishing
their rank over the
next in the chain – they may not bite or kick the lower ranking horse,
but they pin their ears and let the other horse know that they better not screw
around.
This is the exact same with our dog packs. They constantly
interact in a rank manner. You can take the fight out of the dogs and teach
them they had better
not fight, but you will not ever get to a situation where if they are left
alone they won't fight or won't dominate one another.
I have been reading through your web site looking for some information and thought it best to just ask you. My husband and I have 2 dogs that are 5 years old a Lab/Chow mi (Riley) and a Australian Shep mix (Tyson) and 1 dog that is a lab mix (age approximately 2 -3) (Shiloh). Now, I realize (only after reading your web site) this constitutes a "pack" and I see now that my husband and I have done just about everything wrong with our dogs.
Tyson and Riley grew up together and were crated until they were about 2 (though after getting Shiloh we started crating Riley and Shiloh when we leave) then we began leaving them out when we were away and never had any problems. We did allow them to sleep on furniture, they had no aggressive behavior with food or toys or anything. Then one day we noticed Riley "sniffing" Tyson's neck area very intensely and then just bit down, after my husband got him off he crated him and we called the vet. He told us that chow breeds can get aggressive but if you keep an eye on him and don't allow it to occur again or correct him aggressively if it does we wouldn't have a problem. Well after that we never had that problem.
Then we found Shiloh, he was a stray dog passed out on the road when we picked him up. We initially had no intention of keeping him but we could not locate any owners or anyone missing him. He was getting along well with the other dogs and so we decided to keep him. But a year into having him we noticed that when Tyson and Shiloh would play Riley would start to get very watchful and occasionally get on Tyson's neck again. We would pull him away correct him and crate him. However, he would still do this. One day we didn't see it in time and he snapped at Tyson and they fought though it wasn't incredibly aggressive, it was still a fight, and when my husband got over with them they stopped.
More recently, the other day they were outside when the neighbors let their dogs out and ours began barking, so I went to let them in the house. When I got there I noticed Tyson and Riley fighting and (I know it was stupid and looking back really, really stupid) I tried to pull them apart, which I did and Tyson backed away as I held Riley but he got loose and went at him again, so after running in the house to put Shiloh away I came back out and got them apart again and separated. Needless to say they both had to go to the hospital and it wasn't pretty. The vet at the hospital said that with training not basic but good training we could fix the problem because he did with his pit. Now, I asked him why he thought that, with the fact that we had three dogs and this wasn't a one time incident but he said he would try training before giving up the dog. (Putting him down is no where near any kind of choice)
My question is this, do you think with three dogs who stupidly and unfortunately have had no training, could we change the likelihood of this happening again? I'm not completely ignorant, I realize that my husband and I completely failed this dog and it is not his fault. So, if we have to give him up so he can have a better life after some training we will do that as well as to not put our other dogs in danger. He is normally a really sweet, gentle and a great dog. So, do you think we need to give him up to someone with no other animals and make sure he is trained or do we have a chance to keep him with us with some serious training?
Thank you for your time,
V. White
Ed's Response:
You are already past the first part of the solution to this problem – which is to admit that this was a handler created problem more than a dog problem.
If you are willing to make the changes in the way you live with these dog you can fix the problem.
While obedience training is certainly a part of the solution it is not as big of a part as your Vet seems to lead you to believe. The issue is establish pack structure and this is done by completely controlling the lives of these dogs . I wrote a free eBook on THE GROUND WORK TO ESTAMBISH PACK STRUCUTRE WITH ADULT DOGS My web site has a large number of FREE eBook's that I have written. Go to the main directory for eBook's.
If you are prepared to do this work then you can fix the problem. There is a possibility that you may never be able to have these two dogs together again. This may be because of your temperament (not the dogs). It may be that you are not able to be forceful enough to gain respect. I cant tell you if this is the case but it may be. When this happens people need to be using dog crates and only certain dogs are out at the same time. But even then these dogs require leadership and pack structure.
He is a short list of training DVD's I have done that have helped thousands of people like yourself:
Please help. My 5 year old male Labrador has now bitten six people; 3 family members, one familiar friend and 2 strangers, 3 of the individuals in the last 4 months. It appears that his aggression is a combination of possession and territorial aggression.
My vet is suggesting euthanasia due to the liability and ongoing risk.
I've contacted two area trainers. One is scheduled to meet with me in 3 days and thinks rehabilitation might be possible. The other trainer indicated that euthanasia might be the best route. I understand that any traditional "rescues" and humane societies will not accept my dog and I would never consider simply passing my problem along to someone else anyway. I'd prefer the tough decision of euthanasia before I'd consider putting any more people at risk.
My question is this. I know that even with "successful" rehabilitation, it is best for me to NOT keep my dearly loved dog. I was hoping that you might know of a place, association, facility . . . that is willing to try rehabilitation and keep Moose alive. I'm willing to provide the funding necessary if this is an option.
Your prompt attention is more appreciated than you can imagine.
Sincerely,
Valerie
Knoxville, TN
Ed's Response:
I don’t know any rescue organizations.
If you want to save this dog then change the way you live with it and learn something about pack structure and training. I have owned truly dangerous dogs for 35 years and never had a problem like this because I control the environment that my dogs are allowed to live in and be free in.
It will become very evident where you made mistakes.
I believe that the DVD I recently finished could really help you. It’s titled DEALING WITH DOMINANT AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS and was a 5 year project.
You can go to the web page and read the outline of what’s included on the video. My DVD's are not meant to be watched one time. The fact is anyone who needs this information needs to watch it many many times because every time they watch it they will pick up new ideas.
I have a very dominant (Trainers say he is a tough dog that is not scared of anything and dominating is just a game to him)14 month old GSD. He has no aggression towards me or my family but unfortunately he has bit two trainers already. I would like to get him to trust people and not attempt to bite them. Current trainer that I am working with has advised me not to put a muzzle on him, he thinks this would make him more aggressive. I want to try the muzzle on him only if it will help him. What do you think? I really don't want him to be people or dog aggressive. Am I too late to fix this problem?
Best Regards,
Kanat
Answer:
When issues like this happen they are not dog problems. They are owner problems. This dog is the way he is because of the way you chose to live with him. He bit two people because you took him to unqualified people and you are still dealing with an unqualified person in the one who said not to muzzle the dog.
I suggest that you read the article I wrote on my web site titled MY PHILOSOIPHY OF DOG TRAINING – its in the form of a free eBook (along with many others) This will point out the mistake you have made in taking the dog to a trainer rather than doing it yourself like you should have.
The comment that your old trainer made “dominance is just a game to him” is one of the dumbest things I have heard in years. It belongs on my DUMB ABD DUMBER page of my web site. Dominance is never a game with a dog. It is deadly serious stuff. The fact that this dog but two people and he is still a puppy in my book says enough to confirm this.
If you want to fix this dog your going to have to learn how to handler and train a dog yourself. Expecting someone else to do it is NEVER going to work. You are going to have to change the way you live with this dog and establish pack structure and leadership. Here are the DVDs that you need to teach YOU.
Had you done these things before you went to the trainer your first time you would not have a problem right now. To answer your question on muzzles – if you feel you are at risk of getting but from this dog when you give a correction then you need a wire basket muzzle.
Don’t let people near this dog. Read the eBook I wrote titled WHO PETS MY PUPPY – I have owned tough dangerous dogs for 35 years. Dogs that make your puppy look like a marshmallow – no one ever pets my dogs – not for any reason. Dogs are pack animals and dominant dogs don’t want new pack members.
In answering your question about it being too late? Its only too late if you are not willing to educate yourself and learn.
This is a serious situation so I hope you take my STRAIGHT TALK seriously.
Ed Frawley
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