I'm going to cover a basic summary of the different types of dog aggression. Keep in mind that there is a HUGE difference between dog/dog(animal) aggression and dog/human aggression.
1) Fear or nervous aggression. This is a common form of aggression for dogs and can be directed towards animals, people, objects and can even be triggered by scary places. Fear aggression is correctable with proper socialization and R+ training methods (You can read about Liwanu's battle with this on the blog 'Curbing the Violence')
2) Frustration aggression. Also known as fence-fighting or boundary aggression. Dogs who are kept in dog runs behind the house 24/7, are chained 24/7 or otherwise live a fairly isolated life (IE are not family pets, don't get to explore or meet other dogs/people) are prone to this type of aggression.
3) Sexual Aggression- This usually occurs between two intact males in regards to a female in heat. Females may show aggression towards other females during their season or even the male if they are not receptive to his behavior.
4) Territorial Aggression- The name speaks for itself. Many people mistakenly think that this type of aggression is appropriate because they have never seen how quickly it can get out of hand. Anything the dog regards as 'their property' is defended often with serious injury being done. Many dog attacks happen because of someone mistakenly entering the dog's perceived territory and not knowing how to react to the initial threat display. NILIF is a great method to help break the cycle of territorial aggression.
5) 'Dominance' aggression- While I do not support the dominance theory, dogs do establish a ranking order when meeting other dogs. When two dogs meet who are equal rank or where one is trying to 'buck up' there is likely to be aggressive posturing, intimidation tactics and potentially a dog fight.
6) Predatory aggression- This is fairly straight forward as well. Predatory aggression is the act of fulfilling their prey drive. It comes into play when people, animals or other objects appear to be running from the dog.
There are more, but I think I've covered the basics for now. It comes down to a very simple fact. Aggression is a serious issue and correcting it takes help from a behaviorist. Because of the complex body language and various cues (many of which can barely be seen by an unblinking human eye) the average dog owner is not capable of telling which type of aggression their dog has, which makes it very difficult for them to correct.
7/1/08
Ian Dunbar's Bite Assessment Scale
Level 1- Dog growls, lunges, snarls-no teeth touch skin. Mostly intimidation behavior.
Level 2- Teeth touch skin but no puncture. May have red mark/minor bruise from dog’s head or snout, may have minor scratches from paws/nails. Minor surface abrasions acceptable.
Level 3- Punctures ½ the length of a canine tooth, one to four holes, single bite. No tearing or slashes. Victim not shaken side to side. Bruising.
Level 4- One to four holes from a single bite, one hole deeper than ½ the length of a canine tooth, typically contact/punctures from more than canines only. Black bruising, tears and/or slashing wounds. Dog clamped down and shook or slashed victim.
Level 5- Multiple bites at Level 4 or above. A concerted, repeated attack.
Level 6- Any bite resulting in death of a human.
Cesar Milan has over simplified aggression for dogs. In his mind all dogs are aggressive from fear or dominance. He calls every dog that performs Level 2 or above a 'red-zone' case and overall makes it sound as if they were a lot worse than they actually are. As the above scale illustrates, there are several different levels of severity in aggression. Liwanu for instance; was at worst a 3+ which in the big picture isn't that bad. It's not good and it doesn't make him less of a danger but it doesn't mean he needs to be put down for being vicious. Levels 5 & 6 are the ones that most likely will need to be humanely euthanised because most owners are not capable of putting the time, energy and money into rehabilitating them. I really hate the term 'rehabilitation' because Cesar Milan has decided to use it as a catch phrase. Using R+ methods aggressive dogs can be healed and eventually can be integrated into a very average lifestyle. I would never consider an aggressive dog cured, it's more like being a recovering addict. Each day that the dog is able to maintain appropriate behavior is a success. There will be back-slides and gains, it's part of life for everything and everyone.
Level 2- Teeth touch skin but no puncture. May have red mark/minor bruise from dog’s head or snout, may have minor scratches from paws/nails. Minor surface abrasions acceptable.
Level 3- Punctures ½ the length of a canine tooth, one to four holes, single bite. No tearing or slashes. Victim not shaken side to side. Bruising.
Level 4- One to four holes from a single bite, one hole deeper than ½ the length of a canine tooth, typically contact/punctures from more than canines only. Black bruising, tears and/or slashing wounds. Dog clamped down and shook or slashed victim.
Level 5- Multiple bites at Level 4 or above. A concerted, repeated attack.
Level 6- Any bite resulting in death of a human.
Cesar Milan has over simplified aggression for dogs. In his mind all dogs are aggressive from fear or dominance. He calls every dog that performs Level 2 or above a 'red-zone' case and overall makes it sound as if they were a lot worse than they actually are. As the above scale illustrates, there are several different levels of severity in aggression. Liwanu for instance; was at worst a 3+ which in the big picture isn't that bad. It's not good and it doesn't make him less of a danger but it doesn't mean he needs to be put down for being vicious. Levels 5 & 6 are the ones that most likely will need to be humanely euthanised because most owners are not capable of putting the time, energy and money into rehabilitating them. I really hate the term 'rehabilitation' because Cesar Milan has decided to use it as a catch phrase. Using R+ methods aggressive dogs can be healed and eventually can be integrated into a very average lifestyle. I would never consider an aggressive dog cured, it's more like being a recovering addict. Each day that the dog is able to maintain appropriate behavior is a success. There will be back-slides and gains, it's part of life for everything and everyone.
6/25/08
BSL, MSN and other Anti-Dog laws....
For those who are not familiar with the terms I'll give a brief run-down.
BSL= Breed Specific Legislation. BSL is aimed at dogs who fit a certain type considered dangerous. The problem is that there is almost no way to tell a dog's definite breed without a large pedigree listing it's lineage. Rottweilers, 'pit bulls', boxers, Dobermans and such are all under attack. These dogs are judged by the actions of animals owned by uncaring/irresponsible owners which in turn ruins it for the rest of us.
MSN= Mandatory Spay/Neuter. MSN was recently passed in L.A. (I believe, I'll correct it if I'm wrong). It requires early spay/neuter and breeders need to buy a permit in order to have their animals intact. It also requires written documentation of medical reasons if a pet cannot be spayed. This was originally thought of as a solution to BYBs and Puppy mills. Since the people responsible for puppy mills and BYB facilities don't follow laws, MSN only punishes the responsible.
There is a way to correct the dog bite problem and reduce the pet overpopulation problem. It doesn't require laws punishing the responsible and it does work.
http://www.windsorhumane.org/pdfs/Bill%20Bruce.pdf
http://caveat.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2007/1/29/2694938.html
Essentially, Calgary has reduced their dog bite stats, increased licensing and increased owner responsibility. How you ask? Like this:
In grade school, their children are taught the 'Four Pillars of Owner Responsibility'. Their children learn from an early age (which is how it should be) that companion animals are not just throw away toys.
The Four Pillars of Owner Responsibility:
1) Companion Animals need to be licensed and Permanently Identified. This is fairly simple and inexpensive if only people in the US would do it.
2) Companion Animals should be spayed and neutered for their health and to prevent accidental litters.
3) Always provide the necessary food, training, exercise and care for companion animals.
4) Never allow your pet to become a nuisance or danger to the community.
Are these things really that hard?? It seems to me that it's cheaper and less time consuming just to do the above list than to face criminal charges, fines and steep medical bills. Experience should have taught us that criminals do NOT follow the laws. By adding more laws to what we have, only the law-abiding citizens suffer. Please take this to heart and pass it on! Teach your children the Four Pillars and volunteer to do an Assembly at your local schools. By preventing the creation of right removing laws we protect the future of our country.
BSL= Breed Specific Legislation. BSL is aimed at dogs who fit a certain type considered dangerous. The problem is that there is almost no way to tell a dog's definite breed without a large pedigree listing it's lineage. Rottweilers, 'pit bulls', boxers, Dobermans and such are all under attack. These dogs are judged by the actions of animals owned by uncaring/irresponsible owners which in turn ruins it for the rest of us.
MSN= Mandatory Spay/Neuter. MSN was recently passed in L.A. (I believe, I'll correct it if I'm wrong). It requires early spay/neuter and breeders need to buy a permit in order to have their animals intact. It also requires written documentation of medical reasons if a pet cannot be spayed. This was originally thought of as a solution to BYBs and Puppy mills. Since the people responsible for puppy mills and BYB facilities don't follow laws, MSN only punishes the responsible.
There is a way to correct the dog bite problem and reduce the pet overpopulation problem. It doesn't require laws punishing the responsible and it does work.
http://www.windsorhumane.org/pdfs/Bill%20Bruce.pdf
http://caveat.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2007/1/29/2694938.html
Essentially, Calgary has reduced their dog bite stats, increased licensing and increased owner responsibility. How you ask? Like this:
In grade school, their children are taught the 'Four Pillars of Owner Responsibility'. Their children learn from an early age (which is how it should be) that companion animals are not just throw away toys.
The Four Pillars of Owner Responsibility:
1) Companion Animals need to be licensed and Permanently Identified. This is fairly simple and inexpensive if only people in the US would do it.
2) Companion Animals should be spayed and neutered for their health and to prevent accidental litters.
3) Always provide the necessary food, training, exercise and care for companion animals.
4) Never allow your pet to become a nuisance or danger to the community.
Are these things really that hard?? It seems to me that it's cheaper and less time consuming just to do the above list than to face criminal charges, fines and steep medical bills. Experience should have taught us that criminals do NOT follow the laws. By adding more laws to what we have, only the law-abiding citizens suffer. Please take this to heart and pass it on! Teach your children the Four Pillars and volunteer to do an Assembly at your local schools. By preventing the creation of right removing laws we protect the future of our country.
Owner Responsibility..PT 2
I promise I'll get off my podium regarding this subject after this post.
This is more geared towards those who own large breed (over 50 lbs) or dogs who are typically seen as 'vicious', 'dangerous' or overly strong breeds. More specifically, the owners of bully breeds, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Hounds etc need to pay attention.
I firmly believe that we who choose to own these beautiful, working dogs have added responsibility. It is part of our duty to provide everything in the previous post AND go the extra mile to ensure our dogs project a positive image for their breed. Liwanu is a mix. I know what breeds he consists of because of physical attributes, temperament characteristics and behavior traits. Since I know what he is, I know how he looks it is my job to ensure that no one gets hurt by him. Behaviors that other dogs can get away with are unacceptable. A growling Chihuahua would make everyone laugh, a growling 90lb mutt isn't as humorous.
As hard as it is, we need to have higher standards for our dog's behavior. Anything that could hurt or scare another is unacceptable. It's not fair that our dogs have to go above and beyond but in order to fight the misconception the Media blatantly throws to the public it is on our shoulders to prove them wrong.
This doesn't mean you hurt or get rid of a chow mix who has some behavior issues...it simply means that you need to take time and money out of your shoe or restoration car project to put into a behaviorist or R+ trainer. Pick up a book and read. Do what you can and if all fails at least you tried.
This is more geared towards those who own large breed (over 50 lbs) or dogs who are typically seen as 'vicious', 'dangerous' or overly strong breeds. More specifically, the owners of bully breeds, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Hounds etc need to pay attention.
I firmly believe that we who choose to own these beautiful, working dogs have added responsibility. It is part of our duty to provide everything in the previous post AND go the extra mile to ensure our dogs project a positive image for their breed. Liwanu is a mix. I know what breeds he consists of because of physical attributes, temperament characteristics and behavior traits. Since I know what he is, I know how he looks it is my job to ensure that no one gets hurt by him. Behaviors that other dogs can get away with are unacceptable. A growling Chihuahua would make everyone laugh, a growling 90lb mutt isn't as humorous.
As hard as it is, we need to have higher standards for our dog's behavior. Anything that could hurt or scare another is unacceptable. It's not fair that our dogs have to go above and beyond but in order to fight the misconception the Media blatantly throws to the public it is on our shoulders to prove them wrong.
This doesn't mean you hurt or get rid of a chow mix who has some behavior issues...it simply means that you need to take time and money out of your shoe or restoration car project to put into a behaviorist or R+ trainer. Pick up a book and read. Do what you can and if all fails at least you tried.
6/19/08
Owner-Responsiblity
SURELY THESE DOGS DESERVE DEATH!
When they came for the pit bulls,
I remained silent;
Surely these dogs deserved death!
When they banned the rottweilers,
I remained silent;
Who needs these dogs?
When they came for the guardian breeds,
I did not speak out;
My dog was not one of these.
When they came for the large dogs,
I remained silent;
My dog was small.
When they came for all dogs,
there was no one left to fight with me.
There was a time when Americans stood united to protect our way of life as well as our property. Our society has deteriorated into a self-absorbed mess. No longer do we offer kindness to each other, no longer do we see the government as working for us. We blindly accept the decrees they make and are content with our rights being washed away in a tide of idiocy. We allow the media to brain-wash us into following the agendas of ARA (animal-rights activists) and other non-political organizations. I support animal welfare and animal rights, I do not support the mass extinction of a species based on it's body type.
Dogs cannot be held responsible for their actions (legally) because they are considered 'dumb' by law. The responsibility is completely on the owner. I have a 'dangerous' dog. He truly is dangerous because of his fear-aggression, unpredictable tendencies and the fact that he's 90lbs and knows how to use his weight. These things combine to make him a serious threat to the general public. I know that my dog can and will hurt someone if I am not constantly alert to the surroundings. I have set a protocol down for our daily routines and I always have a back up plan. Because I know this, I step up and go the extra mile to ensure his safety and the safety of others.
As dog owners it's OUR DUTY to keep our animals safe from other people while simultaneously keeping other people safe from our animals. BSL (breed-specific legislation) is BULLSHIT because it does nothing to address the true problem behind fatal and non-fatal dog attacks. No dog has ever or will ever attack a person for no reason. We may not be able to see the reason (most commonly we cannot because we are not directly involved) but there is one. Simple reasons for dog attacks are; fear, stress, being trapped, pain and illness. A few safety tips for EVERY dog owner out there are:
1) Know your dog. What were they bred for? How did they do their job? How much energy do they have (this dictates how much time/exercise they'll need)? How do they handle new situations/people? How are their obedience commands?
2) Train your dog. If there are any behavioral issues which can be potential signs of things to come (such as food-aggression, growling/lunging/charging at people, hackling etc) seek a professional who uses positive reinforcement or pick up a book from my recommended reading list. ALL dogs should know basic obedience commands and respond to them well. Training is very important regardless of breed/size or how cute the dog is.
3) Know your area. Know the dogs/people around your home, along your walking route and anywhere that you leave your dog for periods of time. You don't need to know a name or their life story, just familiarize yourself with the faces so you can recognize characters that are out of place. Know which areas have children so that you can protect them and your dog from bombardment or it's effects.
4) Never take for granted that your dog is harmless. EVERY dog can and will bite if it's pushed too far. Make a plan for emergency and keep your dog secured inside the house, inside a REAL fence or on leash at all times. Invisible fencing is only moderately effective at keeping dogs in an area and it doesn't keep anyone out. Chained dogs are more likely to be aggressive and hurt people/animals because of their frustrations.
TO BE CONTINUED...........
When they came for the pit bulls,
I remained silent;
Surely these dogs deserved death!
When they banned the rottweilers,
I remained silent;
Who needs these dogs?
When they came for the guardian breeds,
I did not speak out;
My dog was not one of these.
When they came for the large dogs,
I remained silent;
My dog was small.
When they came for all dogs,
there was no one left to fight with me.
There was a time when Americans stood united to protect our way of life as well as our property. Our society has deteriorated into a self-absorbed mess. No longer do we offer kindness to each other, no longer do we see the government as working for us. We blindly accept the decrees they make and are content with our rights being washed away in a tide of idiocy. We allow the media to brain-wash us into following the agendas of ARA (animal-rights activists) and other non-political organizations. I support animal welfare and animal rights, I do not support the mass extinction of a species based on it's body type.
Dogs cannot be held responsible for their actions (legally) because they are considered 'dumb' by law. The responsibility is completely on the owner. I have a 'dangerous' dog. He truly is dangerous because of his fear-aggression, unpredictable tendencies and the fact that he's 90lbs and knows how to use his weight. These things combine to make him a serious threat to the general public. I know that my dog can and will hurt someone if I am not constantly alert to the surroundings. I have set a protocol down for our daily routines and I always have a back up plan. Because I know this, I step up and go the extra mile to ensure his safety and the safety of others.
As dog owners it's OUR DUTY to keep our animals safe from other people while simultaneously keeping other people safe from our animals. BSL (breed-specific legislation) is BULLSHIT because it does nothing to address the true problem behind fatal and non-fatal dog attacks. No dog has ever or will ever attack a person for no reason. We may not be able to see the reason (most commonly we cannot because we are not directly involved) but there is one. Simple reasons for dog attacks are; fear, stress, being trapped, pain and illness. A few safety tips for EVERY dog owner out there are:
1) Know your dog. What were they bred for? How did they do their job? How much energy do they have (this dictates how much time/exercise they'll need)? How do they handle new situations/people? How are their obedience commands?
2) Train your dog. If there are any behavioral issues which can be potential signs of things to come (such as food-aggression, growling/lunging/charging at people, hackling etc) seek a professional who uses positive reinforcement or pick up a book from my recommended reading list. ALL dogs should know basic obedience commands and respond to them well. Training is very important regardless of breed/size or how cute the dog is.
3) Know your area. Know the dogs/people around your home, along your walking route and anywhere that you leave your dog for periods of time. You don't need to know a name or their life story, just familiarize yourself with the faces so you can recognize characters that are out of place. Know which areas have children so that you can protect them and your dog from bombardment or it's effects.
4) Never take for granted that your dog is harmless. EVERY dog can and will bite if it's pushed too far. Make a plan for emergency and keep your dog secured inside the house, inside a REAL fence or on leash at all times. Invisible fencing is only moderately effective at keeping dogs in an area and it doesn't keep anyone out. Chained dogs are more likely to be aggressive and hurt people/animals because of their frustrations.
TO BE CONTINUED...........
5/10/08
Yet Another Disappointment
So far things are not falling together all that well. So far the money I've been working on saving up hasn't been lasting because situations keep popping up and it doesn't help that my boss currently owes me 150$ in back pay. Aello is teething (still or again not sure) and I haven't been able to supply her with appropriate chew-toys. Liwanu is being a big red oaf still. His behavior has mellowed a bit although he's still highly reactive to the emotions of those around him. It has caused me some trouble in the past and I'm sure it will cause problems in the future but for right now I will take baby steps with him and in our daily lives.
Overall, they are both coming along nicely. I found a new method for teaching 'heel' which I'm trying with them both since Liwanu needs help with his and she doesn't know it at all. Daily training sessions do us all good because it gives them mental exercise, teaches them appropriate behavior and gives me time to not worry about all the small things that stress me out. For each of those short sessions the only things that matter are me and the dogs which is welcome relief.
I am starting to wonder if I'm just choosing the wrong path which is why it isn't working out. Past experience has told me that when I'm headed the wrong way everything falls apart and goes to hell for me which is what is currently happening. This seems like the right path though. I mean, choosing to settle down in one place (for awhile anyway) and get a steady job is something that is socially expected, but it's just not working so maybe I'm making a mistake in my attempt to be 'normal'.
Overall, they are both coming along nicely. I found a new method for teaching 'heel' which I'm trying with them both since Liwanu needs help with his and she doesn't know it at all. Daily training sessions do us all good because it gives them mental exercise, teaches them appropriate behavior and gives me time to not worry about all the small things that stress me out. For each of those short sessions the only things that matter are me and the dogs which is welcome relief.
I am starting to wonder if I'm just choosing the wrong path which is why it isn't working out. Past experience has told me that when I'm headed the wrong way everything falls apart and goes to hell for me which is what is currently happening. This seems like the right path though. I mean, choosing to settle down in one place (for awhile anyway) and get a steady job is something that is socially expected, but it's just not working so maybe I'm making a mistake in my attempt to be 'normal'.
4/27/08
Another pending change
The top is Liwanu as a very young puppy. The bottom is Liwanu posed to the right (viewer's right) of his father, Damien.Well, my boss/landlord "forgot" to pay the cable/internet bill for 3 MONTHS! so we lost the internet a week or two ago. Unable to get anything done I spent my days watching the fuzzy idiocy called TV and playing with the dogs.
Liwanu- Has begun showing less aggression towards strangers. Off-leash he's great but still needs people-work while on-leash. He's matured out a bit more and I'm actually thinking about finally getting his 'big-boy' collar and name tag. It really does seem like just the other day he was a tiny fluff ball. Now he's a huge cloddhopping beast.
Aello- Is still an energetic fluff ball although she's began to fill out into a more mature size. It's amazing how far she's come. When I got her she was an 8 lb little black thing with tiny little cut ears, now she's a 31lb black thing with cute bat ears. She's muscled and tall with a bit of brindling on her legs, face and chest.
It's amazing how fast they mature and grow. Their change from fluffy puppy to sleek adult truly brings home how quickly time goes by and that we should cherish them as long as we can. On a less sentimental note, I may be moving us out of here soon. I have to find out the rules and regulations for the two trailer parks and how much they'll work with me on rent/sec. deposit and then I'll know for sure. Hopefully I can pull this off. The good thing would be that the dogs and I would be safe and happier out there because I wouldn't have to deal with my boss other than for work related things. The downside is that I can't bring them on the bus with me so during the day they'd have to be crated for their safety.
I hate the idea of not being able to play with them all day every day but I've got to put their welfare ahead of my own selfish desires. If I can pull this off they will no longer be at the mercy of my boss's husband or broiling from my boss's unwillingness to get AC units. Liwanu is very sensitive to heat because he has a thick undercoat and Aello is black so heat is not a great thing for them to be exposed to.
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