Introduction
Dogs interact and respond socially to a complex set of signals that primarily revolve around body posture, movement, and facial expressions. How they ultimately respond is inherent to their behavioral make-up and is based on genetics, hormonal influences, and upbringing.
Proper socialization to other dogs and people is absolutely critical. Puppies go through a major developmental phase between 8 and 12 weeks of age where interaction with other animals, people, and their environment is crucial to developing proper social and interactive character traits. Puppy classes are an excellent way to achieve this socialization while establishing a solid foundation for training. Failure to capitalize on this critical developmental timeframe can, although not always, lead to inappropriate, and at times dangerous, social skills.
Curbing Aggressive Behavior
Behavioral problems involving aggression are difficult to correct with simple advice and generally necessitate the direct and continued involvement of either a trainer experienced in dealing with aggression problems or a veterinarian specialized in animal behavior. Realistic expectations suggest that although one may be able to modify this behavior, it is unlikely to be completely corrected, especially if the problem has been ongoing and is now entrenched.
Treatment revolves around desensitizing the dog to the eliciting stimulus (i.e., other dogs) and counter-conditioning (i.e., rewarding calm or good behavior). Complete control over your dog, by either you or your trainer, is essential for this to work. A lead halter can be a valuable tool that provides not only physical control but also causes the dog to focus his attention on you, should he misbehave.
Once this level of control is achieved, introduction to scenarios which elicit your dog's aggressive behavior is done, but at a distance. The appropriate distance will vary with each dog. If you have control and your dog is behaving calmly, rewards (treats, verbal, and patting) are given. Gradually the distance is reduced over a period of time. If any aggressive behavior is displayed, the distance is increased and control re-established, then the process starts again. The goal is to associate other dogs and a calm reaction from your dog with something positive – a reward.