We all have them in our neighborhoods. The houses where we feel we need to cross to the other side while walking our dogs. The houses we fear, because we are afraid their dogs will break loose and attack our precious pooches.
Twice in the past week, I have had to put back together dogs, who while on a leash next to their owners, were viciously attacked by dogs who were inadvertently released from their house/yard. In both cases the dogs had been known to be aggressive to dogs in the past.
The owners of these escaped dogs are irresponsible. If they knew their dogs were aggressive, then all measures needed to be taken to keep them contained. One escaped when the owner opened the gate. Why was this dog outside and off leash when the owner opened the gate?
In fact, the problem is why were these dogs allowed to become so aggressive? So many owners are poorly informed as to proper training and socialization. If these dogs were properly socialized as puppies, maybe they would not have considered other dogs as prey…and prey they were. The attackers were trying to kill the other dogs. And didn’t respond to commands from their owners.
Part of responsible pet ownership is preventing aggression. Another part is dealing with aggression if it is present. Both should be dealt with by the veterinarian. And if the aggression could not be controlled, sometimes difficult decisions might be required, such as euthanasia if the dog could not be safely contained.
Too often I hear that “my dog isn’t aggressive…only to other dogs”. Aggression of any type is dangerous…to pets and humans. It is not permissible. And if unchecked, someone will be hurt eventually. Once the violence has escalated, treatment is difficult. The best way to combat aggression is to prevent it. This means early socialization (before 12 weeks of age) and positive reinforcement training. Both should be with consultation together with a veterinarian well-trained in behavior and a professional trainer. A small investment in time and money will prevent a lifetime of misery…as aggressive dogs are they way they are due to severe anxiety and the dogs they attack can be severely injured or killed.
So please be responsible. Please work to prevent aggression in puppyhood (this is by far the best approach!). If your pet is aggressive, work with your veterinarian. And if the problem cannot be fixed, make the decision to fully contain your dog or if euthanasia is needed for the safety of all. I don’t want to see any more injured dogs, savagely attacked while doing nothing more than walking down the street.