Aggression by Your Dog to Visitors in Your Home

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

When welcoming visitors to your home, the last thing you want is to trigger your dog and create an unsafe environment for your visitor. You might be wondering why your dog appears more aggressive at home versus in public. If this sounds familiar, then join us for this episode where we’re tackling the often misunderstood topic of territorial aggression.
Territorial aggression is seen when your dog exhibits heightened aggression and reactivity whenever there are unfamiliar humans (to your dog) in your home. There are several ways to manage these reactions and help de-escalate your dog’s aggression which is explored in detail in this episode. I also explain the different factors that can affect your dog’s aggression such as categorizing the type of visitor and how to respond appropriately. Watch out for next week’s episode where I'll once again focus on managing your dog’s aggressive behaviors outside the home.

Key Takeaways:
[3:10] The Case of Beau
[5:40] Understanding What Triggers a Dog to Bite Out of Nowhere
[7:50] When Your Aggressive Dog Isn’t Taking Treats
[9:15] How Dogs Identify Their Triggers
[12:18] Understanding a Dog’s Territory
[13:20] Why Dogs Are Extra Aggressive in Their Territory
[16:43] Managing Your Dog During Different Kinds of Visitors
[18:17] How To Identify Mildly Avoidant Dogs
[20:49] The Most Important Thing to Understand About Fearful Dogs
[22:00] Get To Know Rules 1 and 2 of Territorial Aggression
[23:55] Must-Practice Rules for Mildly Aggressive Dogs
[27:38] Using the Targeting or Touch Command
[29:20] Understanding the Goal of These Exercises
[30:30] Can I Let Unfamiliar Dogs Into My Home?
[32:54] What to Expect for the Next Episode
About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older.
Links:
Free Handout on the 3 Rules for Human-Dog Interactions with Dogs who Fear Humans
Episode 07: Behavior Modification Exercises for Dog Aggression, Part 1
Facebook
Training Videos

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.