Aggressive Dogs

Dog-Zilla

There are 77.5 million dogs in the USA according to the most recent survey available - APPA's 2009/2010 National Pet Owners Survey. The survey also stated that there are 45.6 million households in the USA with pet dogs.

A survey by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta ("CDC") concluded that aggressive dogs bite more than 4.7 million people annually in the USA.

The "CDC" states that in 2008 885,000 people received medical attention for dog bite injuries.

According to the newest information from the Insurance Information Institute,
aggressive dog bites cost insurers $412 million 2009
That's up from $387.2 million 2008.

The number of dog bite insurance claims were 16,586 in 2009
That's up from 15,790 in 2008.

The insurance payment for the average dog bite claim was $21,200 in 2005.
The average dog bite claim exceeded $24,000 in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

Over 50% of dog bites occur on the dog owner's property.

The vast majority of aggressive biting dogs (77%) belong to the victim's family or a friend.

Male dogs accounted for 70% - 87% of the attacks studied, and 60% were unneutered males.

Any dog can become aggressive and will bite someone given the right circumstances.

Aggressive dogs and the dog bite epidemic as a whole involves all dogs and all dog owners, but there are certain breeds of dogs have a predisposition towards aggressive behavior and are most likely to kill.

Pit bulls, Rottweilers, Presa Canarios and their mixes are responsible for 74% of attacks that were included in "Merritt Clifton Dog attack deaths and maimings, U.S. & Canada, September 1982 to November 13, 2006." study. In more than two-thirds of the cases included in the study, the life-threatening or fatal attack was apparently the first known dangerous behavior by the animal in question.

Clifton states: "If almost any other dog has a bad moment, someone may get bitten, but will not be maimed for life or killed, and the actuarial risk is accordingly reasonable. If a Pit Bull terrier or a Rottweiler has a bad moment, often someone is maimed or killed--and that has now created off-the-chart actuarial risk, for which the dogs as well as their victims are paying the price.

Individual genetics and breed are major factors in determining aggression. Guard dogs such as Dobermans, German Shepherds and Akitas were bred to be more aggressive than the hunting and companion breeds.

Terriers were bred as ratters and still retain their urge to snap and bite. There is enormous variation in aggressiveness or assertiveness among dogs. Certain breeds such as Chows are famous for this quality; but there is wide variation within any breed as well.

The most horrifying example of the lack of breed predictability is the October 2000 death of a 6-week-old baby, which was killed by her family's Pomeranian dog. The average weight of a Pomeranian is about 4 pounds, and they are not thought of as a dangerous breed. Note, however, that they were bred to be watchdogs! The baby's uncle left the infant and the dog on a bed while the uncle prepared her bottle in the kitchen. Upon his return, the dog was mauling the baby, who died shortly afterwards. ("Baby Girl Killed by Family Dog," Los Angeles Times, Monday, October 9, 2000, Home Edition, Metro Section, Page B-5.)

Any individual dog may be a good, loving pet, even though its breed is considered to be potentially dangerous. A responsible owner can win the love and respect of a dog, no matter its breed. One cannot look at an individual dog, recognize its breed, and then state whether or not it is going to attack.

To understand the aggressive behaviour of dogs you must realize that dogs are domesticated animals, not people.

Dogs in a family situation see humans as members of their pack and attempt to establish their place in the social hierarchy by challenging more submissive family members, especially children. When dogs show dominant aggressive behavior gestures like growling while guarding their food dish or aggressiveness around dog food, and they aren't scolded for this behavior by using aggressive behavior management, they inch up in dominance surpassing certain family members.

Subtle signs of dominance can go unnoticed. Because we love them we explain these faults away until the dog finally bites a human who infringed on its alpha position.

Owners often do not realize what occurred and think the dog "bit for no reason." These dogs are often taken to animal shelters and are killed because their owners did not understand how aggressive behavior comes about.

The symptoms, reasons, and causes of aggressive dogs are:

The Dog's Health. When a dog is sick, injured, or in pain, they may become aggressive and bite. If a normally calm animal becomes aggressive then take him for a complete physical check-up with a holistic vet as soon as possible, as there may be underlying health problems. Females nursing puppies may also become protective and aggressive.

Inadequate or Poor Diet. Ensure that your dog is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic).

Excessive Punishment, Hitting, Kicking, Verbally Assaulting, and Teasing. Any dog that's been mistreated can bite. Any dog can be turned into an aggressive dog. Owner, family, and handler temperament is a very important factor.

Chaining a Dog. 26-28% of dogs involved in the fatal attacks of the study above were chained at the time. Chaining also is inhumane. Chaining or tethering has been declared illegal in many communities. California and Texas have no-chaining laws.

Training and Socialization. A dog that has been poorly trained or not trained at all is an obvious danger. Keep your dog on a lead, and consider investing in a muzzle if necessary. Poor socialization and becoming desensitized by children can trigger biting and aggressiveness.

Recent Changes. A new baby or a job that keeps you away for longer periods than before can trigger an aggressive dog.

Provocation or Perceived Threat. A person's behavior toward the dog could provoke an aggressive attack. This includes any behavior the dog could perceive as a threat to their human family.

"This dog jumped up on that fence and walked around for a little while. It then proceeded to jump down on my side and attacked me, more so than any dog I've ever dealt with. I was lucky to have a substantial piece of firewood at arms reach, I really think I would have been bitten otherwise. I went bear-training on it 1. got big 2. got loud 3. backed up slowly to the house. I was literally thinking 'how am I going to tell these neighbors that I killed their dog?"

The most common forms of aggressive behaviour in dogs are Dominant and Territorial aggression. Some dogs have more than one type of aggression. Other types of aggressive behaviour in dogs are Predatory and Defensive/Fear aggression.

Signs of A Dominant Aggressive Dog:
Dominant aggressive dogs are overly protective of their possessions and status. These dogs tend to snarl and growl or snap and bite when a family member approaches them near their food bowl, or when something is taken from them; sometimes just holding, or disturbing a possession while it is resting. They attack other dogs as well as other animals. These dogs will mount other dogs until the second dog assumes a submissive posture. They often attempt to sexually hump people's legs. When petted, groomed or detained in any way they will growl and snap. They often chase cars and bicycles. They love to wander and escape and will ignore commands that they return or heel, or look to their owner for advice or reassurance. Dogs that have the dominant type of aggression are very confident in new situations. Dominant aggressive dogs have very distinctive body language, they stand with their heads erect and their ears bent forward. They carry their tails proudly and stare intently at strange people and pets. They stand still facing the new individual and emit a low steady growl while they curl their lips and expose their teeth. They demand to be the center of attention in all situations and must make the decision as to who does what and when. They often urine mark new areas.

Once a dog has assumed a dominance aggressive temperament it can be very difficult and sometimes impossible to change their outlook. Through fear, he may allow one or two members of the family to dominate him but he may never be fully trustworthy around lower ranking members of the family and children. If the dog has already begun to bite owners, hiring a professional dog trainer is a good idea. You need to realize that not all dogs will respond favorably to the management of aggressive behavior, and that a trained dog may revert to its previous bad habits once the trainer has left. Dogs that are severely dominant aggressive often stubbornly resist change to their status in the family.



Steps For Prevention and Management Of Aggressive Behavior:
The first thing to do when trying to correct this problem yourself is to change the peck order of the pack - the hierarchy within your family. You must be willing and able to dominate the dog. The dog needs to be at the bottom of the pack, and you must become the pack leader, the Alpha. Husbands are often more assertive than their wives, that is why many dogs will obey the husband and not the wife.

To gain control of your dog you need to dominate every aspect of the dog's life:

When you play tug of war with the dog; do not let the dog end up with the ball or rope when you are finished. Never let him win a showdown or take charge, if you give an inch, dominant aggressive behavior dogs will take a mile.

Teach the dog to sit calmly when you snap on their leash. Teach your dog to sit and heel before petting, going outside, or entering and exiting the car. This may not seem like it would be very important, but it helps define the rules that apply to all activities that you and your dog will share. It also teaches the dog that you set the rules.

Make the person(s) who are having the biggest problem with the dog the primary care giver for the dog. During this period have other family members ignore the dog. Dogs do not dominate people on whom they must rely.

Alter triggers in your home that lead to outbursts of dominance aggression. For instance, if a dog growls when you approach it on the sofa make the sofa off limits to the dog. If your dog is aggressive around food or bones, feed him on his own in a different room. When you feed the dog do not let it eat until you command it to come to the food bowl. Do not feed these dogs from the table. Instead, feed them last.

Do not let dominant-prone dogs sleep in your bed or in the bedroom. Reserve that space for your family.

Dogs should always receive rewards for good behavior and be denied rewards for bad behavior. The dog will quickly learn that a given behavior always illicits a given positive or negative response from you. You must be totally consistent in your praise or criticisms.

Always reward the dog when it shows signs of submission. These signs include laying their ears back on their heads, licking their lips, rolling over, sitting, avoiding eye contact and curling in their tails.

Signs Of A Territorial Aggressive Dog:
Territorial aggression is a prized attribute in guard dog breeds such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Akitas. If you do not want an aggressive guard dog, do not purchase these type of breeds. Some dogs readily learn to differentiate between welcome guests and intruders but others do not. They are very good at sensing your attitude toward strangers, if you are fearful, these dogs know it and will become protective. These dogs fiercely guard their home, as they have an innate need to dominate. They regard the home, yard, car, and even your children, as their personal property, and will bite intruders.



Steps For Prevention And Management Of Aggresive Behavior:
For aggressive behavior management of a territorial aggressive dog you must first dominate the dog as the leader of the pack, the Alpha. You must set the rules and you must decide who is friend and who is foe. The dog should look at you for advice when a stranger approaches. Enlist some friends to help you by approaching the house when the dog is hungry and cautiously feeding it some treats. Let your friends take the dog on short walks on a leash. Fence your yard so the limits of its territory is clear to the dog.

Signs Of A Predatory Aggressive Dog:
Australian Shepherds, Healers, Border Collies and other herding dogs have an instinctive drive to chase and bite. These dogs are basically loving, they just have a very strong natural urge to boss and herd. It becomes a serious problem when they try to apply their herding talents to the children of the family or guests as they display a predatory aggressive behavior. I have a friend who owns a Border Collie that continously bit at my feet while I visited. I would never take my shoes off while visiting, and the owner would 'half-heartedly' correct the dog by telling it to stop. Two minutes later, the dog would be biting me again. Even with my shoes on, this dog's teeth would penetrate and hurt. I don't visit them at home anymore.



Steps For Prevention And Management Of Aggressive Behavior:
To control predatory aggression, every member of the family, especially the children, need to stop the dog from the undesirable behavior at the moment it happens. Make the dog aware that it IS a problem with a sharp reprimand and a "No"! when they break the rules and then deny them affection and interaction for ten minutes. If that does not work, start clipping them onto a short leash to remind them of the rules for ten minutes.

Signs Of A Defensive/Fear Aggressive Dog:
These dogs are very uncertain and tentative in their actions. When faced with new situations with people or dogs they avoid direct eye contact and assume a low submissive stance. They stand with their ears flat against their heads and their tails tucked between their legs. They bend their head and neck toward any individual that seeks their attention while they lick their lips. They will often roll on their backs exposing their belly. Their expression is one of profound worry. They are very fearful about being touched and shy away from being petted stroked or brushed. At any instant they may snap and bite in fear. They strike out silently like a snake, never locking their jaws on another person or pet. They will often urinate and defecate in fear.



Steps For Prevention And Mangement Of Aggressive Behavior:
To correct the defensive and fear biting dog, you need to do everything possible to build up the dog's sense of confidence. Do this with verbal praise, petting and treats. Enlist your friends in this activity. In order not to get bitten, you may have to begin this process with a muzzled dog. With the dog muzzled take him on short walks to expose him to new people and situations. Family and strangers should approach slowly. Try to calm and stroke the dog as you go. Keep the leash short and taunt. As the dog gains confidence, increase the walks to include more new people and situations.

Conventional veterinarians will frequently prescribe Tranquilizers, such as Acepromazine to help with the management of aggressive behavior. Valium has also been used in the past. Acepromazine (PromAce and Aceproject) is related to the drugs Chlorpromazine (Thorazine), another tranquilizer, and to Prochloperazine (Compazine), a drug used to prevent vomiting.

Giant breeds and Greyhounds may be extremely sensitive to Acepromazine, while Terriers may require higher doses. Boxers are particularly prone to cardiovascular side effects (drop in blood pressure and slow heart rate). Acepromazine should be avoided or used with great caution in these breeds.

The side effects of the tranquilizer Acepromazine is:
The most common side effect in animals is that they become more lethargic, quiet and relaxed. Many animals seem uncoordinated or unsteady. These are expected side effects and may last for several hours after a dose. It is quite common for the pet's third eyelid to elevate. This is reversible.

Acepromazine will cause hypotension, decreased respiratory rate and bradycardia. Dogs are particularly sensitive to cardiovascular side effects.

Sudden collapse, decreased or absent pulse and breathing, pale gums, and unconsciousness may occur in some animals.

Although Acepromazine can cause sedation, a paradoxical reaction of excitement or even severe aggression can occur in some animals. For this reason, dogs under the influence of acepromazine should be handled gently and should not be left alone with young children.

Acepromazine may initiate or worsen epileptic attacks or seizures in animals.

Acepromazine can lower body temperature allowing for either hypo- or hyperthermia.

Rather than subject your dog to harmful drugs, a much better pet med would be 100% natural Aggression Formula.

It is especially aimed and developed for dogs that tend to bite or otherwise attack either humans or other animals.

Aggression Formula helps to treat the problem of aggression in socially stressed dogs and allows your dog to relax and enjoy the company of other people and animals. Aggression Formula can be used regularly as prevention and management of aggressive behavior in the chronically stressed and aggressive dog.

Two to three doses of Aggression Formula may be safely given every day as a preventative to calm your dog and reduce chronic aggressive behavior.

Within a few doses, an almost immediate calming effect is usually seen. Regular use will result in a calmer and less aggressive dog.

One bottle of Aggression Formula will last for 15 - 30 days, depending on the size of your dog and frequency of dose.

"I have two young male dogs, both adolescents that are close to killing each other and any other male dog around. This has made it impossible to go for walks without stress and I had just about given up before trying your Aggression Formula. We were recommended a tranquilizer which I was very hesitant to try and thought I would try this first, with very good results. The best is that they are still happy and bouncy and not drugged, which I wanted to avoid. " - GLD

"Our little Maltese can be such a sweetheart but he is very jealous and will not allow anyone near us without growling and will bite with very sharp teeth if anyone else tries to pet him. Your Aggression Formula has done wonders. I won't say that he loves other people more, but just that he is more relaxed and does not bite anymore. He may have a bit of a growl, but it is more like a grumble and he does not attack, which is a big relief! Now I can have friends again! " - Damaria

You can use Aggression Formula with other prescription medications. No adverse interactions have been noted between the ingredients in Aggression Formula and other prescription medications.

Aggression Formula's Ingredients Are:
Scutellaria laterifolia (Scullcap) is one of the best known herbs for treating anxiety and other nervous disorders. Scullcap may be used for situational anxiety linked to a stressful event (e.g. a trip to the vet or a competitive event) or for more chronic nervous conditions. Providing tonic benefits for the entire nervous system, it helps to soothe and calm dogs while also reducing excitability and stress.

Matricaria recutita (Chamomilla) is a medicinal herb which has been used by European naturopaths for centuries. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and calming properties and will help to soothe your dog and reduce symptoms of stress.

Belladonna (C30) is a proven homeopathic remedy which is included in this remedy for its benefits towards highly strung and oversensitive animals, and those who are prone to sudden fits of aggression and tendency to bite.

Arsen Alb. is a proven homeopathic remedy which is used for a range of conditions. It is very helpful to the affectionate and sensitive dog who tends to become easily agitated and restless, often needing lots of reassurance and sometimes having a tendency to jealousy.

Lactose (inactive ingredient)

A GUARANTEE

Aggression Formula is backed by a one year money-back guarantee so you can experience results risk-free.

We are so certain that you will be completely satisfied with our wonderful, natural products, that we offer a One Year unconditional money back guarantee.

Simply try the products for at least 30 days. If you are not completely satisfied - for any reason - return the product within 1 year for a complete refund less shipping fees.

If you have a question about any of these natural dog products, it's usage, or it's dosage, I encourage you to visit this page: Ask Us Questions. Enter your question or concerns in the form, and the company will try very hard to answer it within 24 hours.

Problem Dogs
Bad Dog Behavior

Problem Dogs

Problem dogs, everyone has either owned or known someone that owned a problem dog, haven't they?

Digging dogs that ruin your landscaping.
Barking dogs that won't quit.
Hyperactive dogs that never calm down.
Dogs humping your legs.

The most common causes or reasons that contribute to hyperactive dogs and problem dogs are:

Boredom, a Lack of Stimulation, Attention, or Exercise. Hyperactive dogs need a natural outlet for their energy. Exhaustion can have a dramatically calming effect on a hyper dog. Regular exercise is essential, and has been shown to have a mood-stabilizing and calming effect.

Inadequate or Poor Diet. Ensure that your dog is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic). A diet that is too high in protein can cause a dog anxiety or hyperactivity.

Food Allergies. Behavioral dog problems can often be related to food intolerances and an inadequate diet.

Stress. Take note of particular stressors in your pet's environment that may be causing problems, particularly recent changes such as introducing a new pet or a new person to the home, moving house or even a new, particularly high-pitched doorbell can also contribute to having a problem dog.

Dogs may feel insecure and fearful and "act out", sometimes even becoming aggressive, biting, or displaying an inappropriate dog sexual behavior. Ensure that your home is a secure environment where your dog feels safe.

Excessive excitability of all kinds will respond very well to All Natural Problem Pet.

Problem Pet naturally reduces hyperactivity and restlessness, prevents and controls biting dogs, scratching, excessive barking dogs, jumping, and digging dogs. Problem Pet also lowers an excessive libido to reduce inappropriate dog sexual behavior

Problem Pet Ingredients are:
Scutellaria laterifolia (Scullcap). one of the best known herbs for treating anxiety and other nervous disorders. Scullcap may be used for situational anxiety linked to a stressful event (e.g. a trip to the vet or a competitive event) or for more chronic nervous conditions. Providing tonic benefits for the entire nervous system, it helps to soothe and calm dogs while also reducing excitability and hyperactivity.

Hypericum perforatum (St John's Wort) is widely used as a natural alternative to the prescription drugs for depression and anxiety. Research supports its effectiveness in stabilizing levels of neurotransmitters responsible for mood, sleep, concentration, libido and general feelings of well being. Many problem pets have an underlying depression and deep sense of insecurity. Some may also have high levels of irritability with a disposition to aggression. Regular use of St John's Wort can help to reduce aggression levels, while calming your dog and inducing a greater sense of well being and relaxation.

Belladonna C30 is a proven homeopathic remedy which is used for treating a variety of physical and emotional conditions. It is included in this remedy for its benefits for highly strung and oversensitive animals, who are prone to sudden fits of aggression and tendency to scratch or bite. Pets who are very sensitive to noise, light, touch and temperature changes will also benefit from this remedy.

Cantharis C30 is a homeopathic remedy which also has many benefits, Cantharis helps to treat inappropriate and excessive dog sexual behavior and helps to prevent the embarrassing problem of a dog humping legs or other animals. It will also help for pets prone to sudden fits of aggression, irritability and temper.

Nux Vom C30 A homeopathic remedy which is helpful for hyperactive dogs who never sit still. It can also be very helpful for dogs who are highly excitable and irritable as well as pets with excessive appetites who may also be prone to developing stress related digestive disorders.

Lactose (inactive ingredient)

Problem Pet Customer Testimonials:
Behavior of dog humping in leg problem!
"Since using problem pet my dog no longer humps every visitor that comes to our house which was such and embarrassment! Thank goodness for your remedy!" -Felicity

"We had really come to our wits end with our dog! She was a puppy we found at the Shelter and for two years we tried in vain to socialize her and get her to calm down. Nothing helped and we tried everything. One day my husband said that this dog has ADHD and the penny finally dropped! After some research we came up with your website and how glad we are that we did! We use the Problem Pet regularly and it helps to calm her down without changing her happy personality." -Dana

Separation Anxiety
Bad Dog Behavior

There is one more reason you may have a problem or hyperactive dog, called Separation Anxiety. Dogs are so very much like people, they get attached to their owners, and can become anxious for many of the same reasons we do.

I suggest for this problem, a VERY popular natural pet med called Pet Calm. Pet Calm is also an excellent med for a hyper dog!

Hyper & Dogs With Anxiety

The aftermath of a dog with separation anxiety

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