General aggression of people or things usually points to socialization or trauma. But when asking 'why is my dog aggressive towards me but not my husband” you need to consider is it just you. When your dog is only afraid of you and not other people it can be due to lack of understanding your dogs way of communication.
Sometimes, it can even be hard to know why this is happening. Dogs typically bite just one person in the household because they have a bad past experience, aren't well-socialized, or the person doesn't know how to interact properly with dogs. It could also be resource-guarding behavior.
Owner-directed aggression is problematic for any dog and owner; it most commonly comes in two forms: a genetic disorder referred to as Rage Syndrome, and a more typical diagnosis called Conflict Aggression.
If a dog that has never shown any sign of aggression suddenly begins growling, snapping, or biting, it may be caused by a disease or illness. Pain is an especially common cause of aggression in dogs. 1 Your suddenly aggressive dog may have an injury or an illness that's causing major discomfort and stress.
You should NOT punish a dog for biting. This method may also teach the dog not to give a warning prior to the bite. It certainly doesn't do anything to minimize the dog's stressors.
In one posture, hold the pup over your head, firmly supporting him with both hands and stare into his eyes (staring is a dominant behavior to the dog). Maintain this position until the pup has been still for 10 seconds. He must be still for that length of time or he hasn't submitted to you.
Most scientific studies indicate that it is very possible to rehabilitate a dog after they bite another dog or person.
The safest and most effective way to treat an aggression problem is to implement behavior modification under the guidance of a qualified professional. Modifying a dog's behavior involves rewarding her for good behavior—so you'll likely be more successful if your dog enjoys praise, treats and toys.
Many dogs simply tolerate patting but don't enjoy it, and many dogs find human touch to be scary or awful. And when something is scary or awful, the polite canine way for a dog to make this clear to the world is by a growl, a snarl, a snap, or an inhibited bite. Yes, you read that right.
Never try to out run an aggressive dog in pursuit. It will only escalate the problem. Stay calm, and back away slowly. Instead of screaming, or yelling at the dog, speak to him in a soothing tone as you slowly back away.
Pit Bull Terriers
Probably the most notorious breed on this list, the pit bull has a reputation for unpredictability and aggression, even against its owner or his family. State and local governments have been vigorous in restricting ownership of this dog with breed-specific legislation.
The reason why is either due to 1) Lack Of Early Socialization 2) Trauma or 3) Trust. However, when people ask 'why my dog is aggressive towards me but not my husband” I first have to explain each cause to find the root problem.
He's play-biting
Play-biting is a different thing altogether, and it can be adorable and a clear sign your dog wants some affection—pronto. “If your pet is play-biting (or pulling at you for attention), then he'll do it because he's having fun with you, and it's a sign of affection,” explains Dr. Nelson.
When a dog is protecting a person, he's reacting to a dog or person approaching the pet owner and himself. Protective dog behavior manifests differently for different dogs. Dogs will either freeze, glare at the approaching person, snarl, show teeth, snap or even bite.
Aggression in dogs can be due to guarding territory, resources, or a family member; fear; frustration; prey drive; or pain. In all of these situations, a dog may be pushed too far and can transition quickly from reactive, fearful, or guarding behaviors to being aggressive.
Things You Should Do When Working with an Aggressive Dog:
Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and other canine enrichment activities. Maintain a calm demeanor around your pet. Use positive reinforcement and reward-based training techniques. Purchase and use a muzzle if your dog bites or you suspect he may.
The best thing a pet parent can do when their dog has escalated aggressive behavior is to remove the dog from that situation or remove the trigger that the dog found threatening. If you're the reason the dog is directing the aggressive behavior, step out of sight.
Level 3: One-four shallow punctures from a single bite and potentially small lacerations from pulling the biting dog or victim body part away. Level 4: One-four deep punctures from a single bite and lacerations or bruising from the dog holding on or shaking.
*Clean the area with running water and soap, as much as possible. *Immediately seek the help of a medical expert. *After washing, you can also apply betadine or an antiseptic in liquid form. *Don't bandage the wound.
Act like the alpha of the back and show him who is boss. Look him/her in the eye: When you give a command, look straight at your pet. Make sure he can see that you mean business and that it is not a command to be disobeyed. Always hold eye contact with your pet, no matter how big or small he or she is.
If your dog sees you as the alpha, they will permit you to eat first and refrain from snatching or stealing food. This is a sign of respect. In your home, you set your dog's feeding schedule. If your pup sees you as the alpha, he or she will patiently wait for food or subtly ask for table scraps.