My dog bites strangers who pet him. How to manage his aggression?

Question

Hi doc. My dog has a kind of an agression problem. But first I want to tell you that I have never beat my dog when he did something bad, I just yelled at him so I don't really understand from where does that behavior come from. Sometimes, when I walk with my dog there are people who want to comunicate with my dog, and here comes the problem.. he wants to 'attack' the person that want's to touch him. But he does not do that to every person. What do you think I should do? Thank you! Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | 66 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Aggression like this is serious. Dogs reach their social/behavioral maturity around 2-3 years of age. This is when a dogs behavior can change. Since he wants to bite and attack I recommend a trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They may want to start a behavioral modification drug while you start trainer. You will need to put in the effort and also make realistic expectations for how Pablo will be. He may never be a dog that strangers can walk up to and pet. You need to learn his triggers and learn to avoid situations where someone could be hurt or negative behaviors are initiated. I hope this helps and I wish you and Pablo the best!

My dog bites strangers who pet him. How to manage his aggression?

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