Re: Specks sudden aggressive UPDATE

In Reply to: Specks sudden aggressive UPDATE
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  chris
Posted on:  April 27, 2002 at 18:42:16

: Speck had a fever,is losing baby teeth & is now on antibiotics and baby aspirin. She was out of control at the vets though. In the few seconds I was writing down her instructions Speck rolled her soft carrier over and over until she reached the end of the waiting room. Even the vet had never seen anything like it. Full moon?
: He's calling a behaviorist friend to address her 360 change in attitude. Speck will be spayed the week after next. My sister thinks its PMS-my mom thinks its mad cow. smile :-)

: Anyway, the meds are kicking in, we're using tough love with time outs & have switched to a terrier food I found at the pet store which she likes alot.

: I did get some advice I'm uncomfortable with.
: Someone recommended I quit submissive position & rather aggressively handle her? Grab by the scruff, nail her to the ground yelling no and not let her up. They said dogs only understand pack order and in order for me to be alpha-I guess I have to kick some puppy butt. They said their JRTS dont fear them and they know who's boss. What are your feelings on aggressive handling? I always thought aggressions begets aggression. Am I wrong?

: Truly, Thanks for all the help. We're waiting for the vets behaviorist friends advice & I'll keep you posted on Specks success. Thanks again.

Response:

Hi Chris,

Glad to see you are on the right track in determining what is up with Specks.

Also you are right to question the tactics that were recommended to you. "Tough Love" means being firm and consistent in training, not being aggressive with your dog. Handling an already aggressive dog with more aggression only adds fuel to the fire. You are not wrong, agression does beget more aggression.

Ask yourself this...do you want a dog that obeys you out of fear or a dog that obeys you out of mutual respect? My guess is you don't want Specks to fear you, nor would I want my terriers to fear me.

My rescue Brody, was one little tough nut when we first adopted him. His aggression was based in fear, it took a long time to get his confidence built up and we did that with firm consistent training, and lots of socialization.

If we had used the advice given to you by this person, Brody probably would have been so damaged he wouldn't have been a good pet for anyone. Instead he is a happy, totally different dog than the little terrier with a bad attitude we first met. Just remember, things don't happen overnight, it can be a lengthy process but extremely rewarding in the end.

Thanks for getting back with us and good luck!

Marie