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My dog is aggressive, attacking other dogs and me. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature American Shepherd | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 20 lbs

My dog has become very aggressive over the last year. She does not like my other pups around when she is laying by me, when she is by a toy, or even a treat. I have recently bought a shock/beep/vibrate collar to try to change the behavior, but nothing seems to work. A few days ago she attacked my other dog and me for stepping in between the two dogs and I'm becoming more concerned and fearful she might become this way and snap at someone else. What can I do? I'm in serious need for advise!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 8th, 2017

I can certainly understand how this is very concerning for you! Karley is definitely showing serious signs of aggression, and you are correct that it can escalate to her snapping or even biting someone, including you. Aggression is a very difficult and dangerous behavior to work with, and it is something that is best left to a professional behavioral expert. It would be best for you to speak to your vet about a referral to one as soon as possible. I never recommend trying to train this behavior on your own due to the risk of injury to yourself, while a behavioral expert will be prepared for that possibility and is trained to deal with it. The sooner you get her into training, the better for her and yourself. I would put in a call to your vet first thing in the morning.

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