Owning a dog comes with a lot of responsibility, including taking the proper precautions when it comes to your four-legged friend’s behavior. Some breeds of dogs are more prone to aggressive behavior; however, any dog, large or small, can be triggered by certain circumstances which could cause serious injury. Here are some tips to help ensure your canine is set up for success:
• Enroll your dog in obedience training classes at a young age. This is also a great time to expose your dog safely and gradually to new environments, pets, and people so that they can learn proper behavior early on.
• Always use a leash when walking your dog in public and use proper containment, such as a fence, at home.
• Learn what causes your dog stress and try to avoid those situations.
• If your dog shows signs of aggression, place them in a secure area away from others immediately.
• Never leave young children unattended with your dog.
• Teach kids safe ways to interact with your dog, such as gentle play, and to avoid sudden approaches when your dog is eating, sleeping, or when they have a toy or bone.
• If a stranger approaches your dog, caution them to give your dog time to get used to them before petting. Some dogs do not react well to being pet by unfamiliar people.
• Consider talking with your veterinarian about spaying or neutering your dog, as it can help lessen aggressive behavior or tendencies.
TIP! If you have a dog, be sure to tell your insurance company what breed the dog is. Failing to do so could jeopardize liability coverage should the animal injure someone. And remember, proper precautions and training are vital to protecting those around you while also giving you and your pawed pal peace of mind.