Every year, huge numbers of dogs arrive at animal shelters for refuge only to be put down when they show aggressive behavior towards people.

Every year, huge numbers of dogs arrive at animal shelters for refuge only to be put down when they show aggressive behavior towards people.

Unfortunately, this behavior can become fatal when an adult or a child suffers a painful vicious attack.

Immediately correct your aggressive dog's behavior at the first warning signs rather than waiting for some of the threatening behavior begins to escalate before you act upon it.

First, you need to understand how to judge your dog's aggressive behavior, especially if you own certain breeds which are known to be more on the aggressive side.

Aggressive dogs seem to have an attitude and bark excessively, growl, snarl, they show their teeth, and like to lunge against a leash or barrier.

Aggressive dogs are almost always territorial and will do their best effort to intimidate people by herding them into a corner or out of a door.  

Your first step should be some kind of socialization program. Obviously this dog is not used to people, and he needs to start feeling comfortable around them. Get your dog all sorts of people.

Find family members and friends which you can introduce the dog to. When you do this, obviously have the dog restrained on a leash, just for the safety of the dog and the people.

Always introduce the dog to one individual person at a time, as crowds tend to make aggressive dogs a bit jumpy. Unfortunately, dogs that have been mistreated, or down right abused which are later adopted will tend to keep their aggressive tendencies.

Understand that since your dog was conditioned to be aggressive, he can be conditioned to lose the aggression as well. Work closely with your dog to provide a peaceful, soothing environment for all of your training sessions.

As he gets more comfortable, start each training session with someone who is familiar to your dog and yourself. Allow this person to approach the dog and take the leash using slow, deliberate steps and a calm confident voice.

Praise the dog with words and gestures or even treats. Once your dog is comfortable with the process, switch places with your partner. Try to play out different scenario and see how the dog would respond.

For instance, have an individual greet you at your door and see how he reacts, or walking him on the sidewalk, bump into somebody. The more you do these kind of exercises, the less aggressive your dog will become.