At ‘Good Dog’ Training, we know that a dog’s bite is often their last line of defense when their boundaries have been pushed too far. Dogs bite when they feel threatened, afraid, or overwhelmed, and often these bites occur within the household. Half of all children are bitten by a dog by the time they are 12 years old and a good amount of those are from dogs that they know.
Once a dog bites, they learn that it works to stop an unwanted interaction, which makes future bites more likely. That’s why taking preventative steps is crucial by teaching everyone around your dog to respect their boundaries.
The Ladder or Pyramid of Aggression & Dog Bites
Understanding the ladder of aggression is key to recognizing when your dog is feeling stressed, fearful, or anxious before it escalates to a bite. Dogs typically show subtle signals, such as yawning, licking their lips, or turning away, before moving on to growling or snapping. While some dogs may go through these steps gradually, others may skip directly to biting. This is why it's essential to be mindful of the early warning signs and address them promptly.
By being aware of the ladder of aggression, you can protect both your dog and the people around them by ensuring situations don’t reach the point of a bite.
Not Your Dog, Not Your Rules
When interacting with a dog that isn’t your own, it’s even more important to respect their boundaries. Unlike your pet, unfamiliar dogs don’t know you and may have a lower tolerance for new people or situations. Always give them space and time to get comfortable before approaching or engaging with them.
Prevent Bites with Socialization and Training
The most critical window for socializing puppies is between 3 and 12 weeks old. During this period, it's important to expose your puppy to various people, animals, and environments, so they grow into confident, well-adjusted dogs. If your dog missed out on this crucial phase, don’t worry! Positive counterconditioning can help your dog gain confidence around new things later in life by teaching them that scary stimuli predict good things, like yummy treats.
Training your dog to be calm and confident around potential triggers is key to bite prevention. After all, a well-socialized and well-trained dog is not only a happier companion but a safer one too.
At 'Good Dog' Training, we specialize in creating positive experiences for your dog through tailored training methods. Want to build a stronger bond with your dog and prevent unwanted behaviors?
Book a session with ‘Good Dog’ Training today, and let’s work together to ensure your dog is the best version of themselves!
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