Tips on communication with Fido. (Part 2)

Understanding your dog and how it communicates will make your relationship strong.

Why do Fido growls at other dogs?

A growl can mean a few things, but it is usually a warning, meaning "Leave me alone" and often indicates anxiety about a certain situation. Here are some of the possibilities.

1 Disciplinary - Pack leaders keep younger dogs under control by looks and growls before they
ever need to nip them.

2 A dog is on a leash will growl at another dog who is not on a leash, for fear of being attack. It is
actually adopting a policy of aggression to scare it's opposing friend away, and this really works
most of the time.

Do you sometimes stop playing with Fido because during the heat and excitement, Fido gave you a growl or two and you thought you have offended him and so you refrain?

A dog growling in play may simply be playful. It is important to differentiate this sort of growl from a more dominant one. If a dog wins a game with his owner that involved growling, it can soon associate growling with winning, that is getting it's own way. This can give rise to complications like when you want to move Fido from your couch and he frightens you with his growling and you finally give way, and he becomes more and more successful in getting his own way. There is a way to help Fido get out of this situation.

Expose Fido gently and repeatedly to the things that is bugging him, or the situation that he is fearful to. Combine these exposure with a good treat (dog snacks) from visitors, and give him
much praise when he doesn't bark. Remember fear aggression may take some time and patience to overcome.

A dog should never be shouted at or hit showing fear aggression. This will worsen the episode. Nor should a dog be ressured, because he may take it as you are praising him for the wrong behavior. Remain calm and relaxed. This will convey itself to the dog.

Tips: Anxiety on your part will only worsen the situation.

Posted by Patrick
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