Aggression in dogs is a pretty common thing. Training them to redirect their aggression to something else or help them understand that you are the one in charge is key. Like with anything your dog might need a little coaching on what your expectations are for him.
Here is an example of when Tank and I had to work together for him realise that Mom was in charge:
As I sat watching a TV show the other night, the doorbell rang, on TV. That didn’t stop my little Australian Shepherd, Tank, from leaping out of his bed and announcing the arrival of a stranger. Standing at the door, confused that no one was getting up to answer the door, he waited. After a few minutes Tank plunked back down in his bed to continue his nap.
This scene is common enough in households across America every day, and most people never realize that their dog was just exhibiting aggressive behavior. We generally think of aggressive behavior as a bite or at least growling and gnashing teeth. But aggressive behavior in a dog starts with subtle signs and develops into a problem over time, and while frequently a dog’s aggressive behavior may not start out as being dangerous, it should never be ignored. And it is your responsibility as the pack leader to curb this behavior.
Click on the link above to read the full article on understanding aggression in your dog.
