I've just been talking to a friend, who's small dog has developed some dog aggressve behaviours after being attacked by another dog a few months ago. Obviously fear aggression - he's still submissive when he actually meets other dogs, just defensive. Her dog trainer recommended correcting any defensive moves with a leash pop, which is only making him worse.
I've suggested that she try something similar to what Ange suggested for Tully - set up a distance from where she knows other dogs will pass, and click and reward for calm behaviour, and focus on her instead of the other dog. Rewarding for the right sort of behaviours, and making other dogs approaching a positive experience again. It makes sense to her, which is a good start, so we'll see how it goes.
Anyone got any other suggestions?
Chill out Fido! by Nan Keene Arthur is a great book - wish I'd had this with Tess :( She needs to stay calm at all costs and importantly be far enough away never to have to pull the lead in (an immediate 'there's something wrong signal to the dog), grab the collar (limiting its defences) or lift the dog (offering it for disembowlment). And - she needs to tell that 'dog trainer' to get with the program :)
ReplyDeleteI know from my own experience with Charlie, that any tightening on the lead, trying to lift him up, or showing him that I am upset or annoyed with him in any way, only reinforces his fear aggressive behaviour.
ReplyDeleteI have learnt to be extra vigilant around other strange dogs, and stay a safe distance away. I will click and treat if Charlie stays focused on me, and shows no signs of trying to lunge at the other dog.
I did however misjudge things at training last night. I was waiting with Charlie on lead outside the clubhouse, while talking to a small group of people. Pam McDougall and Josie came up close to Charlie. Charlie felt cornered and trapped, and reverted to his old ways, and growled and lunged at Pam's dog. Pam was quite shocked.
I just dropped the lead, and let Charlie move away from the situation that he percieved as threatening and being trapped. I thought that Charlie was comfortable around dogs he knew, but should have anticipated that while he was on lead, the dymanics were different
While it was right to get Charlie out of an uncomfortable situation, what he 'learnt' was that his behaviour (growl, lunge) got him away so you will likely find he will try this first next time - sorry to be the bearer of ill news! If at all possible, find a nano second of when he is not lunging or growling, ie. that 'pause' moment, then click, and only then drop the leash. That way you are reinforcing a non-reaction with the reward of moving away. You could even click and then toss a treat away - but make sure the other dog is on lead and that you toss it well away - probably off to the side of you. He might not be in a state of mind to eat though? I have never seen Charlie lunge or growl - I can't imagine it!!!
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