Managing a Dog's Aggressive Play

Dog Breeds

Allowing your dog to interact with other dogs will allow him to learn to control his aggression, but this should only be done if the dog is friendly towards other dogs. This is how dogs normally learn about the limits and consequences of mouthing behavior thereby ensuring they interact appropriately with other living beings and do not cause harm.

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Introduction

If your dog plays too rough, it may be the case that he has not learned how to play properly. Mouthing behavior is a normal, basic instinct in all dogs and they need to learn their limits when interacting in this fashion. Although you understand and are working with your dog's behavior, the same understanding will unlikely be extended from the parent of a child who is injured by your dog's play behavior. Supervised interaction with people is critical and is an excellent approach to curbing undesirable behavior.

Curbing Rough Play

When it comes to correcting behavior problems in young animals, it is critical your dog gets plenty of exercise. This is also something that you should incorporate into your daily schedule to provide a constructive outlet for all of your dog's pent up energy. You should also let him know when his behavior is inappropriate through a loud "ouch!" or "no!" which interrupts his mouthing. Rather than coax him to begin playing again, ignore him for 20 to 30 seconds before re-initiating play and repeat this if aggressive behavior persists. This way he begins to learn consequences for his actions.

Allowing your dog to interact with other dogs will allow him to learn to control his play but should only be done if he is friendly towards other dogs. This is how dogs normally learn about the limits and consequences of mouthing behavior thereby ensuring they interact appropriately with other living beings and do not cause harm.

Other techniques include

• Avoid direct physical contact play, and instead direct your dog’s mouthing behavior to a ball, stick, or frisbee
• Enroll your dog in a good obedience school; one that trains based on rewards rather than focuses on punishment. This will not only provide him with another avenue for socialization, but will provide you with the tools to ensure you have control over his behavior.
• The use of a head halter may also be of help.

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