In the Aggressive Behaviors in Dogs group [Agbeh], we discuss how to modify aggression toward other dogs and/or toward people.

The group, founded in April 1996, today includes 2998 members from all around the world with an interest in canine behavior and training. Among us are 708 experienced dog trainers and other professionals, and 2290 pet owners.

Aggressive behaviors oftentimes arise from dogs' fears or anxieties. Here we discuss how to reduce tensions so as not to exacerbate the problems, give suggestions for safe home management, and for using positive-reinforcement clicker teaching methods for teaching alternate behaviors and skills. Members are taught how to desensitize and counter condition a dog to various stimuli to change the dog's emotional responses. No physical punishment-based methods are advocated; no chain collars, no prong collars, no electronic shock collars. They're not necessary, not recommended.

Pet dog owners, hobby trainers for competition, professional trainers, veterinarians, psychologists, are all welcome. Members need to write clearly and treat one another courteously.

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This group is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For a canine emergency, immediately consult your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, or a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist.