Bossy dominant dogs often challenge authority, show brute strength, and are not afraid to act aggressively toward you. Fear not! This situation can be solved.

One of the best ways to handle a commanding dog is to establish leadership, like a pack leader, using the right tools and techniques like using a leash and collar during walks, treats as a distraction to get a dog’s attention, etc.

Keep reading the blog to learn how to interpret a dominant dog and confidently handle its aggressive behavior when you are together with other residents and pets.

How to Recognize a Dominant Dog Behavior?

• Dogs often mount other dogs, people, or objects to show that they are in control of the situation.
• Dominant dogs may guard their food, toys, or even people by growling, snapping, or physically blocking others from approaching.
• They ignore basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “come” and act as if they do not hear you or follow your orders only when they feel like it.
• They assert physical and social dominance by standing tall and holding a stiff body posture, while making direct eye contact.
• Dominant dogs exhibit aggression through growling, snapping, or lunging, particularly if they feel challenged or the other pup shows submissive behavior.
• The dog rushes ahead of you through doorways or into rooms, essentially taking charge of where they go and when, trying to lead the way.
• They growl and bark at other dogs without provocation to establish their authority and boundaries.
• If the dog blocks paths or refuses to move when you or another dog approaches, they are claiming the space and asserting that others must wait for them to move first.

If you also observe these behaviors and impressions from your fluffy friends, you can address dominance issues early on and take the necessary steps to manage the behavior efficiently.

Tips for Handling a Dominant Dog in Public

Here are a few methods you can apply to handle a dominant dog:

• Use Leash and Collar

A regular leash may not be enough when dealing with a dominant dog in the open. Upon seeing other animals, especially dogs, it might take off, dragging you, too.

It would be best to have equipment that gives you more control without harming your dog. For example, a Prong Collar, designed to apply even pressure around the dog’s neck when they pull, gives you more control while discouraging aggressive or dominant behavior.

Another suitable option is the Head Halter, which fits around your dog’s muzzle and allows you to direct its head. Since you control its head movements, it is easier to manage where your dog looks or sniffs off to.

Similarly, a No-pull Harness helps distribute pressure across the dog’s chest instead of its neck. It is ideal for larger, more muscular dogs that pull when they feel the need to charge.

• Stay Calm and Assertive

Dogs can pick up on their handler’s emotions.

Let’s say that you are on an evening stroll, and if you are nervous or uncertain, your dog might sense it and become even more challenging to control. That is why staying calm and assertive is crucial.

You must walk confidently and take charge of the situation. Your dog will feel more secure if it knows you are in control.

Plus, do not react to barking or lunging. Avoid yelling or reacting aggressively if your dog starts barking or pulling toward another dog.

Instead, stay calm and give them a command like “sit” or “heel” to redirect their attention.

• Make Use of Basket Muzzle

A Basket Muzzle is a fantastic tool for managing aggressive dogs in public spaces.

Unlike cloth muzzles, which can restrict breathing and make dogs uncomfortable, basket muzzles allow dogs to pant, drink water, and even take treats, making it a more humane and practical option for longer walks or outings.

However, the muzzle should be introduced gradually. Let your dog get used to wearing it at home before going out in public.

Use treats and positive reinforcement to help your dog associate the muzzle with good experiences.

How it works?

• Prevents Biting: If your dog tends to snap or bite in stressful situations, a basket muzzle offers peace of mind. It allows you to keep your dog and others safe while working on correcting their behavior.
• Allows Socialization: Wearing a basket muzzle allows your pup to be around other people and pets without risking an accident. This tool makes it easier for you to work on socialization in a controlled environment.
• For Aggressive Situations: If your furry friend has shown signs of aggression in the past, using a basket muzzle along with proper training helps prevent incidents, making outings less stressful for both you and your dog.

• Employ Distraction and Redirection

In public, countless distractions, such as other pets, loud noises, or crowds, can trigger dominant behavior in doggies.

Knowing how to distract and redirect your dog’s attention is essential to keeping it under control.

Some simple ways are:

• Carry high-value toys or treats and use them to distract your dog when they start showing signs of dominance.
• If you notice your dog becoming tense or fixated on another dog or person, use a command like “watch me” or “leave it” to divert their attention.
• Keeping your dog mentally stimulated with simple commands and tricks or playing with them can help prevent them from focusing on distractions.
• Change direction unexpectedly during your walk to keep your poodle engaged and focused on you rather than the surroundings.

• Practice Controlled Exposure

Dominant dogs often assume the role of leader during walks. A long leash can be a valuable training tool, giving your dog more freedom to explore while still maintaining control over its actions.

For instance, a 15 to 30-foot leash gives your tail-wagger space but still allows you to guide them if they start displaying dominant behavior. Or, keep the leash short to have better control over your dog’s movements.

Anyway, by leading structured walks, you reinforce your authority and prevent your dog from making decisions that lead to destructive behavior.

Moreover, make sure your dog stays beside or behind you to reinforce your position as the leader.

Conclusion

Handling a dominant dog in public requires a mix of the right tools and consistent training techniques.

You can effectively manage your dominant dog's behavior in open spaces by using proper equipment, practicing obedience and controlled exposure, socializing your dog, staying calm, and learning to redirect their focus.

Each of these tools and techniques will help you gain more control while ensuring your dog feels safe and secure during outings.

Furthermore, Urban Pet Hospital & Resort is here to provide all kinds of veterinarian and best pet daycare services in Des Moines.