Why Rehoming Is Not the Right Approach
Rehoming an aggressive dog may appear to be the easiest way out and the least painful. It makes sense to give your dog another chance and hopefully have somebody who loves dogs take care of him, right? Wrong. First of all, it is not ethically correct to unload a problematic dog on somebody else. It is also downright wrong to do so without even making the new owner aware of the problems.
If you are struggling with your dog, its very likely the new owner will too. Re-homing is a very stressful event for most dogs, and this most likely will result in amplified levels of fear and aggression. The new owner may risk getting seriously hurt and the dog may then risk being dumped at the shelter or re-homed again—and the vicious cycle starts again.
There are very few cases where rehoming the dog may be a plausible solution. One of them encompasses dogs who suffer from inter-dog aggression. These dogs, which do not get along with other dogs, may do wonderfully in a single dog household. Obviously, the new owners must be made well aware of the problem, so they know in advance they will have to manage the dog carefully on walks and in other places where the dog may be exposed to other dogs, such as the vet office.
Other situations may be when a dog does not get along with cats, small animals, and livestock. These dogs can live virtually trouble-free in homes with no cats, hamsters, livestock, and the like. These are only a few scenarios where re-homing may be a plausible option.
Dogs that have a history of acting aggressively towards people should not be re-homed. Even if the dog acts aggressively towards children but does well with older people, the dog should not be rehomed for the simple fact that it is a liability.
So, what to do with a dog with a bite history? Often, putting the dog to sleep may seem like too big a step, especially if there is room for hope in rehabilitation. It is important to understand, however, that there are times when little can be done for the dog. The best person to evaluate a dog with a bite history is a reputable dog behaviorist. He or she may give you an idea if there is any room for improvement, or if the kindest thing to do is to put the dog to sleep for the safety of all.
Avoid do-it-yourself programs to try to solve your dogs aggression.
Should I Give Up My Aggressive Dog?
You may be unable to keep your dog if it has unresolved behavioral concerns, such as hostility toward other puppies, pets, people on the street, kids, or family members.
We will discuss your alternatives for rehoming dogs that are hostile toward other puppies or display low aggressiveness levels. Nevertheless, canines that attack people present a specific problem.
If someone surrenders their dog to a rescue house, they are placing the burden of their problem on the shoulders of shelter staff, caregivers, and, likely, new dog owners. You may also be held liable for any subsequent bites. You’d feel terrible about not doing more to help your dog improve if you find yourself in such a situation.
If you and your family aren’t already on board with rehoming your dog, there are other options to explore.
First, you will need to determine the severity of the issue. For instance, if your dog’s aggressiveness was a one-time occurrence, its odds are far better compared to a dog with a record of biting.
Additionally, is your dog prone to sudden outbursts of aggression? Or is its aggressiveness a consequence of being removed from its cage during a storm? A vet can help by prescribing diagnostics for specific medical disorders that can cause aggression, such as brain tumors, hypothyroidism, and chronic pain.
Furthermore, talk to a dog behaviorist to see if there are any alternatives to giving up your dog. Options might include behavior-change treatments and medication. Ensure to confirm their certifications, as this sector has many fraudsters.
Aggression is a complicated and potentially hazardous behavioral issue. Both the diagnosis and treatment of this condition can be difficult. Incorrect application of behavioral change techniques might have negative consequences.
Living with and providing medical care to an aggressive dog both present inherent dangers since even highly trained professionals may be victims of dog bites.
You may need to consider humanely confining your dog or euthanizing them. Nevertheless, you might be confused if the dog should live in confinement for the rest of its life.
If you settle for confinement, you will need the following things:
Additionally, you will need to take your dog on routine exercises, preferably every day.
Alternatively, an aggressive dog is in a continuous state of anxiety and vigilance, and if it harms others, euthanizing it may be a humane act to protect others.
What kind of environment does your dog need?
Things like energy level, traffic, and number of people in a home can make a huge difference in your dog’s success.
• How does your dog react when people come to your home?
• How does your dog react to people when out on walks?
• How does your dog handle road noise or neighbors in close proximity? Could he comfortably live in an apartment or condo with shared walls and extra noise?
• Does your dog struggle with being left alone?
• Is your dog sensitive to loud noises or changes in routine?
• Has your dog ever snapped at or bitten a person, and if so, what were the circumstances?
• Does your dog display signs of fear or anxiety?
• Are there situations in which your dog has displayed reactivity or aggression?
Some dogs can handle a busy household with people coming in and out; other dogs may do better in a quiet home with just one person. Some dogs are okay being left alone during the day; other dogs need someone who is home more than not. Some dogs don’t mind living in a busy city neighborhood; other dogs would prefer to live in the country. Consider your dog’s individual needs and preferences when choosing a new home.
When to Put A Dog Down or Rehome for AGGRESSION? (w/ expert Michael Shikashio)
The decision to rehome your dog is never easy, and it can be an intimidating process – especially if your dog has behavior problems. Determining what your dog needs to be successful is vital to finding the right home.