Dominance aggression problems in dogs can be very serious, potentially endangering you, your family and others. If you think that your dog may have a dominance aggression problem, it's important that you deal with the problem.

Is your dog a dominant dog? There are many signs that you can look for that may mean that you have a dominance issue with your dog. When you give your dog a command, does he stare, growl or bark at you? Worse, does he snap or bite? Does he refuse or resist to obey commands or refuse to move out of your way when needed? Does he defend objects from you like toys or food? Has he taken over the furniture and refuses to get down? Does he command you to obey him by nudging you, mouthing your arm or otherwise insisting on being played with or petted? Does he refuse or resist to be handled by you or others? Does he, under any circumstances, growl, bare his teeth or snap at you?

If your dog does, in fact, have a dominance aggression problem, it's best if you seek the help of an animal behavior specialist as soon as possible. In the meantime, do not use physical punishment as this can actually worsen the situation. Try to avoid situations that elicit your dog's aggressive behavior and supervise or confine him if needed and in certain situations such as with children or other pets. Also, have your dog spayed or neutered if you haven't already done so. A trip to your vet for a thorough check-up may also be in order to rule out any health concerns.

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