GOOD DOG:

Problem dog behaviour in Canada: issues and solutions (Part 2)

In the previous issue of the Manor Park Chronicle, we discussed the frequency and seriousness of problem dog behaviour. In this issue we will explore causes and solutions. Readers can find previous issues of the Manor Park Chronicle, including this column, online at: https://manorparkchronicle.com/ 

Problem Dog Behaviour – findings

This past summer I undertook a series of over 25 informal interviews in and around Manor Park with dog walkers, home owners, and city bylaw officers. I inquired as to whether or not they had experienced or had any anecdotal information concerning aggressive dogs. Many described attacks, bites and charging incidents that injured persons and/or their dogs, including some that resulted in major wounds, serious falls and broken bones. Some also pointed to off-leash areas as being particularly dangerous for both dogs and their handlers. 

As the number of dogs has increased in Canada, so has the incidence of problem dog behaviour. The resulting injuries to people and their pets range from minor to life-altering, to sometimes fatal. Although we would wish it otherwise, Manor Park and surrounding neighbourhoods are likely experiencing the same increasing levels of dog attacks and bites as is every other community in Canada. A serious dog attack this past September at a nearby off-leash area underscores the need for owners to better understand, train and actively manage their dog’s behaviour. 

Aggression: Causes, Management and Prevention

Aggression, according to B. Kilcommons in Good Owners, Great Dogs, is a dog’s most powerful survival tool, one that they will rely upon throughout their life. Aggressive behaviour comes in two forms: dangerous dog behavior, which involves attacks and bites; and, “friendly” dog behavior, which, despite reassurances from the handlers that their dogs are friendly, involves charging, jumping and biting. 

Some dogs have a reputation for being aggressive, particularly those bred for security purposes. But given the right set of circumstances, all breeds — from the massively-built Cane Corso to the diminutive Chihuahua — can and do bite. Those dogs that are prone to biting will bite again. Aside from injuries, muzzle restraints, fines and lawsuits, an aggressive dog with a history of biting, or worse, will end up being euthanized. In the end the dog pays the price for our negligence. 

Causes: What causes dog aggression? Aggression can be triggered in many ways. Fear of unfamiliar objects, larger dogs and other people are very common triggers, as is guarding of food or home territory. Injuries, mistreatment and genetics can also play a role. Further, some dogs use aggression to establish and maintain “pack” dominance in the household. Aggressive behaviour can also be unintentionally rewarded and encouraged. For example, instead of firmly correcting unwanted behaviour,  some owners pet, feed or pick up their aggressive dogs in an effort to calm them down. Similarly, well-intentioned individuals looking to pat your dog can undermine your dog’s obedience training while rewarding undesirable lunging and jumping. Further compounding the problem is the widespread use of extendable leashes and body harnesses. The leash rewards and enables pulling and lunging, and the harness hinders effective correction. 

Management and Prevention

Since aggression comes with every dog regardless of the breed, as the owner what are you going to do to manage your dog’s aggression?

In a few instances dog aggression may not respond well to training. If your dog remains highly aggressive and difficult to manage, all off-leash activities should be restricted to a secure and fenced area, well away from children and other dogs. 

Fortunately, in the majority of cases dog aggression can be successfully managed through leadership, socialization and obedience training. My friend and dog-training mentor Mike Ducross often reminds me, “You can’t build horsepower into a dog. But you can direct their energy to positive outcomes.” Building on Mike’s advice, the owner’s challenge here is one of directing their dog’s aggressive energy to calm, obedient, well-mannered and safe outcomes. While this is not an easy task, your chances of success in achieving this goal can be improved immensely by paying close attention to the following: 

• Leadership & training: As the “pack” leader you are responsible for setting the boundaries on all your dog’s behaviour. Bite inhibition, socialization and basic obedience training will ensure your dog is well-mannered around family, neighbours, other dogs and pets. The operative training principles remain; firm, fair and friendly, with priority given to training the no, heel, sit and here commands.

• Managing people/dog interactions: During the interviews I heard numerous dog-bite stories and saw the damage these bites had inflicted on both people and dogs. In some instances, the victims were actually given assurances by the owners that their dog was friendly. 

All involved

Improved management of dog encounters by all parties, owners and passers-by alike, would help enormously to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks and injuries. Adoption of safe practices would be especially helpful in protecting children. 

• Respecting local by-laws: On City of Ottawa and NCC property, dogs are required to be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Whether on or off-leash, dogs must always remain under the full control of their handler. As I learned from my interviews with City bylaw officers, lack of public compliance is the problem. Dogs-at-large and dog bites form the majority of dog-related complaints received from the public. Owner compliance with leash and control requirements would aid immensely in preventing dog attacks and injuries.  

Conclusion 

In Part 3 of this series, we will explore each of these three management and prevention elements in detail. In the subsequent column we will show how understanding the origin of the domestic dog and their life history can guide dog training and improve the outcome. In the meantime, below is a training tip designed to strengthen the bond with your dog. 

Until the next issue of the Chronicle, my sincere thanks to the many dog owners who have provided feedback on the Good Dog column. Letters to the editor with your comments, questions or suggestions for future topics are always welcome. 

Greg’s Training Tip: Feeding time is also bonding time!

Make it a routine at the end of every meal to congratulate your dog on yet another empty food bowl. With lots of praise, pats and belly rubs your dog will soon be performing figure-eighters between your legs and looking for more. If you encounter any inappropriate bite pressure, immediately end the play with a sharp NO! Done consistently, bite pressure will soon not be an issue and the bond with your dog will strengthen. Have fun!