Are you the leader of your pack?

 Who is the leader in your house?

According to Ron Berman, in many homes, the pack leaders are the dogs, and not their human family member.  Ron is a Certified Forensic Consultant, and one of the most knowledgeable experienced experts in the evaluation and investigation of canine aggression in the US. He has personally trained more than 10,000 dogs in his 33 years as a behavioral consultant.  Ron really has seen it all, he has testified  in more than 250 cases as an expert in canine behavior, and temperament, bite wound evaluation and animal cruelty cases. His mission is to help pet owners notice the warning signs in their dog's behavior and to get help immediately.

Knowing the warning signs of aggressive behaviour is the first step in knowing what to do and what to avoid. Ron Berman was my guest on PAWsitive Radio, All Things Pets! and he offered some important information for pet families to learn how to recognize aggressive behavior in dogs, and how to deal with this behavior, and how to protect your pet.

Ron explained that there are five signs or levels of aggression that owners must pay attention to and deal with immediately : 

1) Growling (this is the lowest level, and if the dog is looking at you and growling, that is a sign of aggression).
2) Snarling and growling (where dog is showing his teeth)
3) Lunging and snarling
4) Snapping (tired to bite but the dog missed)
5) Biting

When pet owners notice these behaviours, Ron suggests they seek a recommendation from their vet for a qualified and respected behaviourist who will do an evaluation of the dog in the family home, then work with the family to effectively lead the dog (instead of the other way around). It is important that pet owners know that there can be serious repercussions of dog aggression. Ron has seen this in the courtroom in terms of legal cases but has also seen the aftermath of injury caused by dog bites. Ron's tips help keep our pets and family members safe, and enjoying the healthy and respectful animal human bond. 

Listen to Rons tips and suggestions here:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/chammond/2013/01/23/guest-ron-berman

Ron reminded listeners not to put their hands in the middle of a dog fight. The typical reaction is to put their hands on the dog to separate them, however, this often results in people being bitten. Understanding the warning signs, working with professionals to train your dog (and the family) will go a long way in building trust in your dog, helping your dog be safe, and enjoying a healthy animal human bond.

The more aware pet owners are the better able they are to help their pet be centered and relaxed.  A centered and relaxed dog is a happy dog.

You can visit Ron at: Website:  http://www.dogbite-expert.com