HELP! Aggression

[mattysnock]

I’m looking for some advice on where to go my 19 month old cocker spaniel is started to be aggressive towards my six-year-old son not my daughter who is 11 or me she will play with him do everything normal? But if we go out for a walk or if she’s lying down, even if he doesn’t approach her, she used to growl at him and bark at him but the last couple of days she’s just launched and bit him no blood, but I don’t know what to do.

 

[manuel]

Welcome Mattysnock. I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your cocker spaniel. It sounds like a stressful situation for both you and your son. Dog aggression can be triggered by various factors, and it’s important to address it carefully to ensure safety for all family members.

First, I’d recommend consulting a professional dog trainer or a behaviorist who specializes in aggression. They can observe your dog’s behavior, identify what triggers the aggression, and provide personalized guidance on managing and potentially resolving this behavior.

In the meantime, here are a few tips:

• Supervise interactions: Until you can get professional help, it might be wise to supervise any interaction your dog has with your son and possibly keep them separated when you're not able to closely watch them.
• Observe body language: Pay close attention to your dog’s body language. Growling and barking are clear signs that she’s feeling threatened or uncomfortable. Try to notice what specific actions or environments trigger these behaviors.
• Exercise and stimulation: Ensure your dog gets adequate physical exercise and mental stimulation. Sometimes, behavior issues can stem from pent-up energy or boredom.
• Positive reinforcement: When your dog behaves well around your son, reward her with treats and praise. This can help her associate positive feelings with his presence.

It’s crucial not to punish the aggression as this can increase fear and potentially make the problem worse. A professional will provide the safest, most effective strategies tailored to your specific situation.

Stay safe and best of luck!

 

[Polly]

Hello Matty and welcome, I agree with everything Manuel has said. A professional observer/trainer is crucial he may also suggest a thorough vet exam for your pup. Training is so good, not only does it give you excellent advice on animal training, but, also training the family for the dogs benefit. Good luck.