Every owner of every dog should know how to break up a fight. Although it is especially important if you have a bigger breed or mix, you should know too even if you have a small dog. Small breeds can be more aggressive than large breeds and even the most mellow dog may fight back if challenged. Dog’s are dogs. They will scuffle.

So you say you never let your dog play off leash with other dogs? Well, what if you are walking your dog and someone else has their dog off leash or you encounter a loose dog? A dog on leash can actually get more aggressive than a loose dog if he feels threatened.

Do your friends ever bring their dogs over to play? You never know when a seemingly harmless game of tug will turn ugly.

Knowing what to do will empower you in case something happens. You will save the dogs from more harm and not get yourself hurt by taking the wrong action.

Oh, and one last thing: if you have a dog that you know is aggressive and/or that may clamp his jaws, get a breaking stick. Hopefully you’ll never have to use it.

catbird :: Aug.24.2002 :: woof :: 28 Comments »