Aggression Toward People

See this. Dog barks or growls at a stranger — a kid, a neighbor, the mail carrier. Owner's reaction: "It's okay baby, good girl, you're so brave." Owner bends down, hugs the dog, pets the head, gives treats. The dog just learned: aggression pays. Tomorrow the aggression gets bigger.

Here's the reframe: people aggression is usually not aggression. It's fear. The dog is scared of the person and protecting you. And by rewarding the bark, you just told the dog the bark worked.

The fix: do NOT comfort, do NOT pet, do NOT treat. Step in front of the dog, block the view. Use the leash as a barrier — the same fix as #9 dog aggression. Stand between the dog and the stranger. Don't reward the bark. Don't make a big deal.

If the dog has bitten a person — that is a different problem. Call a professional. Or call me. Safety first, family first.

Brand closer: Train the dog for your families and your neighbors, not just yourself.