AboutSandy Finley Expertise I specialize in dog behavioral problems and dog training. I am a published author on canine behavioral issues and you may find an immediate answer on my website to many of your dog training questions
Experience Professional Dog Trainer and owner of Perfect Manners Dog Training
, Naperville, IL 30 years professional dog training.http://www.perfectdogtraining.com
Organizations APDT
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Science, Eastern Michigan University Published Author on dog training.
Expert: Sandy Finley Date: 6/30/2008 Subject: bringing home an undersocialized 1-3 year mutt
Question i'll be taking home my aunt's dog ("Kekai") who is estimated at being 1.5-2 years old. he was found as a tiny puppy in a box in front of a grocery store. we're not exactly sure of his breed, but he looks like a combination of american bulldog/boxer or a pit mutt. he's a short, stalky little guy and his front toes point in like a bulldog.
kekai is a sweet, loving dog ONLY AFTER he "meets" you with the aid of someone familiar. when approached by any stranger/foreign animal, he gets very timid, nervous, and defensive. he barks and will attempt to charge, but i noticed after spending time with this dog (and a few walks) that he just seems VERYVERY insecure because he tends to hide behind me before he starts barking at said strangers.
my dad watched this dog for a week and i saw him hit this dog on several occacions. i, for one, stopped this nonsensical behavior whenever i witnessed it, but i'm not sure if he suffered any physical abuse from my cousins, who were the original "parents" of Kekai.
this dog is intelligent and loving enough to be able to turn his behavior around and make him socialable, but what can i do to prepare my house and make it more welcoming for this puppy?
what's the first thing to do when correcting a potential aggressive behavior? is 2 years old too late?
Answer Hi Chi,
It sounds like this dog has finally found a good home.
A 2 year old dog is certainly not too old to learn new behaviors.
The "potential aggression" you describe should be easily conquered with patience and love.
Specifically, teach the dog to walk at a heel with you and very gradually introduce him to situations where he has previously shown fear/aggression. In these situations you must remain absolutely calm. He will cue in to your behavior. If he displays fear and/or aggression do not coddle him but correct him. Likewise, confident appropriate behavior should be rewarded with your praise.
Perhaps Kekai was previously abused or simply lacked an opportunity for socialization. It doesn't matter. Dogs live in the "now" and from now on dedicate yourself to training Kekai what his rules are. This will end this fear and he'll love you for it.
