How to Handle Aggressive Dogs

While dogs are generally thought of as “man’s best friend”, dependable and loyal, it is important to remember that they are animals that live by instinct.

Many dogs have aggressive tendencies that can be a threat to both their owners and other dogs. However, by understanding the causes and signs of aggression in dogs, you can hopefully learn how to control your pet and keep yourself and your family free from attack or injury.

Dominance Aggression

As with many animals, dogs have a natural instinct to be assertive and to dominant. So, that makes it very important to put your dog through obedience training early on (ideally, while it is still a puppy) to reinforce to your dog that you are the dominant creature in that relationship.

Fear Aggression

Many dogs respond aggressively when they feel threatened or afraid. A barking, growling dog may actually be displaying fear aggression.

Territorial Aggression

Dogs instinctively protect what they think is “theirs,” which can include their territory, puppies, or food.

So, don’t get between a dog and something it considers to be its property or territory. If you must, be sure to do so with caution and to do so slowly in order to prevent injury.

Contact a Minnesota Dog Bite Attorney

If you or someone you know has been injured by an aggressive dog, contact the Minnesota dog bite attorneys of TSR Injury Law today at 612-362-0000 to discuss your situation with a legal professional.

While dogs are usually considered to be man’s best friend, it is important to remember that they are animals with animal instincts that can be difficult to understand. Dog attacks and dog bites can be extremely dangerous and damaging.

It is important to act safely around dogs, especially dogs that you do not know, in order to avoid attacks and injuries. By adhering to the following pieces of advice, you can hopefully protect yourself and your family from injuries:

Never approach a dog that you do not know. If an unknown dog approaches you, stand still and extend your hand for the dog to smell so that it can familiarize itself with you.

• Avoid making quick and sudden movements around dogs, as they may mistake it as a sign of aggression.
• Never disrupt a dog when it is eating or sleeping. Dogs interrupted in these activities are likely to become defensive and act aggressively.
• Do not attempt to separate a puppy from its mother.
• Do not play too aggressively with dogs, as this will only encourage overly active and aggressive behavior.
• If you are walking with a dog, stay a safe distance away from other dogs. When dogs fight one another, their owners or handlers can often suffer injuries when they attempt to separate the fighting animals.

Contact a Minnesota Personal Injury Lawyer

It is important to act safely around animals at all times. If you or a loved one has been the victim of an animal attack, contact a Minnesota dog bite lawyer of TSR Injury Law at 612-362-0000 to discuss your legal rights and options.