I really enjoy watching Caesar work with dogs - he says that it is usually the smaller dogs that are the most aggressive..... in his new book ("Caesar's Way) that I just finished, he mentioned a pom-mix that attacked and killed a little girl...
So - for sure - we need to take our little dog's aggressive behavior very seriously. They may be small, but their bites hurt, and they can do more damage than we might imagine. Plus - who wants a dog that behaves that way toward other people.....not me.
I think with a potentially serious problem, you should take advantage of all the sources you can for help. Caesar is one. Reading - going to classes - and getting help from behavioral specialists are other ways.
I think I would learn about each method or program thoroughly and try not to do too many things at one time. Training needs to be as simple and as clear-cut for you and your dog as possible. Trying to do too many different things or using more than one method would be confusing ---especially for your pet.
I think aggressive behavior is a very serious problem. I have always said that I wouldn't have an aggressive dog that attacks, bites, or frightens other people. I haven't been put to the test yet, but this type of behavior is the exact opposite of the reason I want a pet in the first place. We have few rules in my house -- but "getting along" and "being nice" is a must.
Good luck,
Carol Jean |