Below is my reply to a neighbor’s post looking for a dog trainer for an “aggressive” Maltipoo.
“I disagree that ANY dog needs force to modify their behavior. The VAST majority of dogs the public considers “aggressive” are defensive due to fear, not aggression.
“These dogs desperately need and want to learn to feel safe, which is 100% about their environment and how the people they live with behave towards them.
“Correcting a dog for being afraid can suppress behavior. The emotion/energy behind the behavior remains and eventually erupts, often in ways the general public never associates with the “training.”
“Until a dog is healed, nothing fundamentally changes for the dog. Every “correction” contributes to their underlying belief that the world is a dangerous place that requires vigilant defense to protect themselves.
How can I be so certain in this assessment? In my first 10 years as a professional “dog trainer” I used “corrections” and other forms of domination to control dogs. I’ve dedicated the last 15 years of my life questioning everything I was taught previously and relearning dog behavior and how to help them, from the dog’s perspective.”
If you’re struggling with a dog whose behavior appears “aggressive,” please consider getting an evaluation from a dog behavior professional. Canine behavior consulting is very different than dog training.
My goal first and foremost is to heal what’s causing a dog’s problematic behavior, not control them.
Dee Green has been a professional dog trainer and canine behavior consultant for more than 20 years. She specializes in puppies up to 18 months, and fearful, anxious and reactive dogs of all ages.
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