How to Stop Dog From Snapping: 10 Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs

Why Are Snappy Dogs Different From Most Aggressive Dogs?

First, let's talk about why snappy dogs are unique dogs, especially when it comes to aggression.

Snappy dogs possess a unique behavioral trait, distinct from outright aggression.

Their inclination to snap arises primarily from fear and boundary concerns.

Unlike overtly aggressive dogs, they may not intend harm but resort to snapping when they sense perceived threats.

You can see this in small dogs getting barky and feisty once you touch them. You can also see this in seemingly calm dogs whose energy levels spike up from a level two to a level nine when their personal space is threatened.

This behavior often emerges when unfamiliar people or situations encroach on their comfort zones or possessions.

Snappy dogs are not inherently aggressive but exhibit a protective mechanism driven by apprehension.

Understanding this uniqueness is vital for responsible ownership, emphasizing patience, positive training, and creating secure environments to help these dogs overcome their fears and develop more confident, non-snappy behavior.

Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs: The 2 BIGGEST Reasons Why A Dog Snaps

REASON #1: Your Dog is Always on High Alert Because They Think They Are In Charge.

For dogs, survival is the name of the game. Therefore, when they think they are the ONLY ONES dealing with danger, dogs become fiercely protective.

Our dogs are instinctively wired to seek a leader within their pack.

When they perceive a lack of clear leadership, they become anxious and agitated, always on high alert for potential threats.

This constant unease can lead to snappy and aggressive behavior as they attempt to assert control and protect themselves.

REASON #2: They Are Protective of Their Space

Consider this scenario: you're walking down the street, and a stranger suddenly comes up to you and say “Oh you're so cute, I love you!”

You'd likely feel violated and possibly react angrily. After all, somebody just got into your space without permission.

Dogs are no different; they can become snappy when they feel their territory or personal space is threatened.

And for dogs, space is a big deal!

This crossing of boundaries is a common scenario among small, popular breed dogs. These dogs are stranger magnets because they can be so adorable; being constantly mobbed by strangers can make them feel overly-protective and aggressive.

How Being The Pack Leader Can Help Snappy Dogs

Being a pack leader is crucial in addressing snappy dog behavior for several reasons.

First, Dogs Have a Natural Instinct to Establish a Hierarchy Within Their Social Groups

If they perceive themselves as the leader, they may feel responsible for handling threats or dangers around them, something that can contribute to snappish behavior.

You can flip this by embracing your role as the pack leader. It's like tapping your dog on the head to say, “Hey, buddy. I got this. You can chill and hand the danger to me.”

When you help establish a strong association with you as a fierce, protective, confident, and reliable leader, your dog will learn to ease up and become more tolerant.

Second, Dogs Rely on a Pack Hierarchy for Survival

They needed a cohesive group to protect themselves from threats.

When a dog doesn't feel it can rely on a leader, it might take on this role, resulting in increased stress and potential aggression.

Third, Taking the Leadership Role Can Make Your Dog Feel Secured

This sense of security can lead to decreased anxiety, making them more tolerant and less prone to snapping.

By establishing yourself as the pack leader, you create a harmonious environment that allows your dog to flourish mentally and emotionally.

How to Be A Leader That Encourages Good Behavior

When your dog learns to associate you with confident leadership they can rely on, they will naturally relax. Stress and anxiety are major contributors to negative dog behaviors. Imagine how much they'll change once they realize they don't need to be on edge all the time!

As a professional dog trainer, I encourage all dog owners to go beyond basic obedience and truly understand dog psychology. When you address the root cause — your dog feeling the need to take charge — you can help them become calmer, more obedient, and happier.

But how do you become the leader your dog needs?

That's where my Five Golden Rules for dog leadership come in. I have a blog series dedicated to this, which you can find here.

These rules teach you how to gain your dog's respect and trust as their leader. Dogs often step into the leadership role because they sense a void. Once they see you confidently filling that role, they can let go of the pressure, becoming less dominant, protective, and territorial. They'll also be much more receptive to your guidance.

I dive deeper into the Five Golden Rules in my best-selling program, The Dog Calming Code, an online program that has already helped over 100,000 dogs!

Dog Training for Snappy Dogs: What Causes Snappy Dog Behavior?

Fear or Anxiety

Dogs may become snappy when they feel threatened, scared, or anxious by strangers and people they know.

Loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, stressful situations, and changes in the environment are just some reasons for fear and anxiety.

Non-aggressive dogs can show their fangs as a typical response to perceived threats.

Pain or Discomfort

Dogs in pain or discomfort may become snappy as a defensive mechanism.

When dogs feel weak, they have all the more reason to be really, really protective.

Physical issues such as injuries, dental problems, or internal discomfort can lead to irritability and aggression. If you have an ailing dog, err on the side of safety.

Territorial Aggression

Dogs are territorial animals, and they may become snappy when they think a threat is getting near their territory or possessions.

The causes for territorial aggression can include guarding their food, toys, or living space.

Lack of Socialization

Dogs not adequately socialized during their critical developmental periods may become fearful or aggressive in unfamiliar social situations.

This can result in snappish behavior when encountering new people or animals.

Frustration or Resource Guarding

A frustrated dog trying to protect a valuable resource, like food or a favorite toy, has a higher chance of snapping.

Resource guarding is one of the core by-products of trying a dog's desire to survive.

9 Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs

1. Be the Pack Leader Who Deals with Danger

A dog uses loud sounds to ward the other dogs off or to stop fights.

When it comes to dealing with a snappy dog's behavior, here's a formula I want you to remember:

You as the Pack Leader + Proper Training = a Calm, Chill Dog.

(Actually, this is the heart of my online dog training program, The Dog Calming Code™️!)

Dogs are all about survival. They want to be safe, they want to feel protected. If you don't make them feel that they can hand all the worrying to you, THEY WON'T STOP BEING SNAPPY…however hard you train them!

My 5 Golden Rules to becoming the pack leader in your dog's eyes (which you can find in The Dog Calming Code) will solidify your leadership. You can take these simple but highly effective steps to make your dog say “Now that's a pack leader I can trust to protect me and the pack!”

2. Know the Triggers of Your Dog

I've had dog owners come to me expressing their shock at how their non-aggressive dog attacked someone!

“We don't know what caused them to react like that!”

Trust me: your dog WILL SHOW signs they're triggered. We just need to really, really be keen in knowing what these triggers are.

Identify the specific triggers that cause your dog's snappy behavior.

Is it random strangers, other dogs, or specific situations? Perhaps a change in the environment?

When you know the triggers, you increase the safety of your dog and the strangers that interact with them.

3. Err on the Side of Safety

Ensure that your dog is securely leashed and has appropriate gear to prevent harm to others in case of aggression.

I know it's tempting to trust on your dog's natural, kind character. But aggression is unpredictable; you have to take every step to prevent your dog from hurting others.

4. Introduce Your Dogs to Strangers Slowly

I totally understand this: you simply want to show your cute dog to your friends or to strangers you meet. However, your dog might not share the same enthusiasm.

When it comes to introducing your dogs to strangers, a slow introduction is key.

Gradual exposure to strangers can help desensitize your dog. Take your time and allow your dog to adjust at their own pace.

5. Don't Use Harshness

Avoid harsh training methods, as they can confuse and exacerbate your dog's aggression. Gentle, positive reinforcement techniques are more effective.

6. Practice Timeout When Needed

Implement timeouts when your dog displays snappy behavior. This gives them a chance to calm down and learn that aggression won't be tolerated.

7. Retreat from Strangers

If your dog becomes aggressive with a stranger, calmly remove them from the situation to de-escalate tension.

8. Ask Strangers to Respect Boundaries

Inform strangers about your dog's needs and boundaries. Most people will appreciate your proactive approach.

9. Limit Exposure to Strangers

Don't overwhelm your dog by exposing them to too many strangers at once. Gradual socialization is key to success. Also be mindful to strangers, especially if you know your dog bites.

10. Consider the Help of a Certified Professional Dog Trainer

A professional dog trainer can see the root cause that makes a dog act aggressively. When you know the main cause of your dog's behavior, you can address the issue without going in circles.

How the Dog Calming Code Can Change Snappy Dogs' Aggressive Behavior

It Shifts the Dynamics

By implementing The Dog Calming Code, you assume the role of the protector in your dog's eyes.

Being a leader in your dog's eyes is showing them you don't need protection; you're actually there to protect them.

This shift in dynamics reassures your dog that there's no need for them to resort to aggression. They begin to trust your leadership and guidance, making them feel safe and secure.

It Uses Dog Psychology

This program delves deep into the intricacies of dog psychology.

It unravels the core reasons behind aggressive dog behavior, addressing the root causes rather than surface-level symptoms.

This comprehensive understanding is vital for creating lasting change.

It Has Shown Proven Results

The Dog Calming Code of The Online Dog Trainer boasts a track record of success, having been tested and proven effective in thousands of dogs with canine aggression.

We have helped 100,000 dogs to transform, becoming calmer, more relaxed, and placing increased trust in their pack leaders — their beloved owners.

The program offers a tested path to a harmonious and fulfilling relationship between dogs and their caregivers, fostering a more peaceful and loving home environment.

If you want to learn more about The Dog Calming Code, click here.

~Doggy Dan 🙂