Use a firm, loud command, such as “Away!” Grunt at your dogs – the sound is unfamiliar to them and also primal. It may catch their attention. Keep in mind that dogs may act aggressively out of fear, and yelling or screaming may only intensify their fear.
If your dogs are prone to aggression, consider carrying an air horn.
If you’re home, spray the dogs with a garden hose.
The other dog should stop fighting when it sees its opponent move away. The dog you’re dragging may twist and continue to snarl. Keep your body a safe distance away from the dog. Let them fight. You might not be able to safely break up a fight between two dogs. Your only option may be to let them fight, as much as you don’t want to do so. There are times, though, that the aggression is too high or you’re not in a position to help, as much as you want to, and the dogs will have to sort it out themselves. [5] X Research source This is a last resort, as there are ways to intervene without putting yourself in physical harm.
You may have heard that if a dog breaks eye contact that they are submitting to you or another dog. Don’t rely on this advice. Until your dog fully appears to have lost interest, assume that they are still paying close attention to the other dog. If the other dog returns a sustained stare, you should assume that tensions are mounting quickly and separate the dogs.
Some dogs may drop their head low and bare their teeth. This is another form of posturing and indicates that a dog is ready to fight. You may see one dog mount another. This is not sexual; rather, it’s a behavior to establish dominance.
Older dogs will growl at younger dogs to help the younger dog recognize their position in the social hierarchy. If you hear your dog growl, pay attention to its other physical signals, which should help you identify if your dog is prepared to fight or is simply vocalizing.
A treat or food bit that your dog is interested in Bad weather or ongoing inclement weather Loud noises Humans being emotional or arguing Dog’s normal routine is off Not getting exercised enough
One dog refusing to defer to the other. This is problematic because dogs operate in a social hierarchy at all times. Pain – dogs are great at hiding their pain and may react aggressively when approached by another dog. Protection – if your dog thinks that you’re in danger, it may act aggressively to protect you, fighting dogs (or humans) that it sees as a threat.
Posturing is different than acting aggressively. Posturing might include bouncing on the front feet a few times, a small, slight growl, or an attempt to herd the other animal to a different location. Posturing doesn’t include bared teeth, snarling, biting, or other overtly aggressive actions.
Ideally, your dogs will respond to your verbal or visual commands and immediately cease any aggressive behavior or fighting. Teach your dogs the “look” command to use as a distraction technique. This command teaches the dog to look at you when you say “look. ” Using this command will provide a temporary distraction from the other dog and help to defuse the tension.
Many cities have dog parks which are parks with enclosures specifically for dogs to run and play off leash. Some pet stores allow dog owners to bring their leashed or harnessed dogs in while they shop. Consider taking your dogs for walks around your neighborhood.
If your dogs fight at mealtime, you might consider separating them with a baby gate or even feeding them in separate rooms.
If you do want to give extra special treats like these, separate your dogs or give them the treats in their crates.
Ask the animal behaviorist about having one of your dogs desexed. Having both dogs desexed may not solve the problem, and having the aggressor desexed may make matters worse. If you are considering this option, then ask an animal behaviorist which dog they think would be the best candidate for desexing.
