Articles Search Engine

How To Combat Aggressive Behaviour In Your Rottweiler

The causes for aggressive behaviour in your rottweiler can be due to a lot of things. One reason could be a dominance related issue between you and your rottweiler, or as a puppy he had a bad experience like being attacked by another dog which can be a trigger for aggression. No matter what the causes, your rotti’s aggression should be dealt with straight away. The results of prolonged aggression can be not only scary, but dangerous if not quickly taken to task.

The Root Of Aggressive Behaviour In Dogs

Dog aggression can begin as young as 6 weeks of age, a crucial age when a puppy should be socialized with other dogs and given the vital training that keeps them from biting other people. Up to 14 weeks of age you should socialize your rottweiler as much as you can but don’t finish there, it is vital to continue this process for as long as possible.

This means several things. For a start a puppy that is younger than 8 weeks of age should not be taken away from its litter. Make sure you treat your rottweiler with care between 8 and 10 weeks which means no forceful or harsh punishments to discipline him. Hitting, screaming or other harsh punishments at a young age can produce aggressive behaviour in dogs over time.

To quash any probable aggression concerns your rottweiler needs to be appropriately socialised with as many people and other dogs by the time he reaches 14 weeks.

There are several factors involved that can trigger aggression. Genetics definitely may play a part and selected breeds can be more aggressive than others but that’s not always the case. You may encounter more aggressive tendencies from dogs that have not been de-sexed.

A dog’s environment is the single most crucial factor when it comes to creating aggressive behaviour. Dogs who live in really poor conditions, have owners that strike them, are not socialised and may have suffered an assault from another dog are far more prone to being aggressive.

Aggression can develop from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies are often the consequence of a dog testing for control. So there are no dominance concerns in your home between you and your rottweiler, make certain you maintain the alpha position until he is at least 2 years of age.

How To Control And Eliminate Aggressive Behaviour

If your dog exhibits aggressive behaviour after 14 months of age, when it has reached sexual maturity, particularly after it has been de-sexed, you should address the problem instantly. You should make sure from day one that you’re the pack leader. If your rottweiler shows aggressive behaviour for any reason especially if he is frightened, never reward him for it.

By controlling his feeding and walking times and providing good training methods you will be showing him that you’re the leader in the household. Your rottweiler may present aggressive behaviours towards others if you allow him to take liberties at home.

Defensive aggressive dogs may hit out at people due to fear. These dogs may not have been properly socialized. Keep them away from little children (which they can see as direct threats) and attend a training session or behaviourist who can slowly acclimate the dog to a social atmosphere.

Aggressive behaviour in dogs is an enormous concern that many owners have, but it can be controlled, even as your dog gets older. If your rottweilers aggressive behaviour develops into physical attacks you may require the help of a professional before you or someone else gets hurt and your dog is held accountable.