AN expert dog trainer has provided some tips on how pet owners can effectively handle their dog's aggressive behavior.
Zak George has been training dogs for nearly two decades.
He has his own YouTube channel dedicated to the topic and has hosted various programs on the Animal Planet channel, including Dogs 101, George's website says.
"It's not about labeling a dog as aggressive," George said in one of his recent YouTube videos.
"It's about understanding why a dog behaves aggressively in certain contexts and taking certain measures to address the underlying cause."
There are a number of factors that can impact a dog's proclivity for aggressive behavior including their genetics, socialization, and environment.
But on some level, all dogs are prone to it because they're descended from wolves, who are adept predators.
"Those instincts can sometimes influence a dog's behavior," George said.
Signs a dog is about to behave in a predatory manner could include lip licking, growling, and excessive yawning.
That could lead to snapping, lunging, and ultimately biting.
There's no simple fix that will apply to all pups, George said.
"Aggression is unique with every dog and requires a nuanced understanding of your dog's behavior," he said.
Because aggressive behavior is often caused by stress or fear, he said it can help to create distance between a dog and whatever may be triggering them.
That could entail changing the time a dog is walked to avoid people or other pets.
Owners could also create safe spaces for a dog at home with baby gates or a crate so the animal has a spot where it can relax and calm down.
Redirecting is another useful tool, George said.
If a dog looks like it's about to engage in predatory behavior, they could be redirected to an activity like fetch, which is a harmless outlet for these wolf-like instincts.
But George said that if aggressive behavior is a consistent problem for a dog, it's a good idea for the owner to consult a credentialed animal behaviorist.
It can also be triggered by health problems, so he added that going for a veterinary check-up can help owners identify any underlying issues that may be making a dog uncomfortable.
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