When you dog growls at you you probably feel worry, fear and even, sometimes, anger. You don’t know how to handle the situation. Should we challenge it or ignore it? What does that growl mean?
Aarón Sánchez, a trainer canine who shares his knowledge on his Tik Tok account (@tailymood_adiestramiento), explains the importance behind this behavior and how to act to strengthen the bond, especially with puppies.
How to deal with your dog’s growling? Photo: FreepikAccording to him trainerhe growling is not an act of rebellion nor aggression. It’s the way you dog finds to communicate his discomfort, fear or annoyance. «The growl is a warninga way of saying ‘I don’t feel good about this,'» says the specialist.
There may be various reasons why you dog he growls. Some of them are:
- Fear or insecurity: facing new or unknown situations for your dog.
- Resource protection: whether it’s their toys, their food or their space.
- physical pain or discomfort.
- Stress: due to excess stimuli or manipulation.
Sánchez explains that growling, especially in puppies, is part of learning and socialization. «It is not a behavioral problem, but a sign that something does not like or bothers you,» he continues.
What to do when your dog growls
Marcos Javier Ibáñez, Takoda CEO Natural Trainingexpands the information: «The dog does not know how to solve a certain situation, and resorts to more intense signals; It is as if it screams, but it is not a sign that it will bite the person later. «In most cases it’s just a screech.»
For this reason, both assure that you don’t have to raise your voice or correct your dog when he growls because he could stop signaling that he is uncomfortable and move on to a stronger reaction.
Growling is how dogs communicate their discomfort, fear, stress, and pain. Photo: FreepikSo, the appropriate behaviors to handle the situation, according to specialists, are:
- Move away or stop the action that caused the growl.
- Give him space and time to calm down.
- Pay attention to context to determine what caused the growling.
- Consult with a professional in case the growling intensifies and becomes part of your routine.
By forcing a situation, the only thing that will be achieved is worsen the bond and generate more stress in your dog. For this reason, Aarón Sánchez explains in his account that when you dog he growls, “the important thing is to respect the warning and work on trust with the animal.”
How to strengthen the relationship with your pet
It is especially important to understand what your behaviors mean. dog to maintain a good coexistence and strengthen your relationship.
- Do not use punishment: Many professionals say that using positive reinforcement and patience are the key to strengthening the bond with your pet.
- Listen and respect the signs: whether it be the growl, the posture, the ears.
- Seek professional help: If you cannot handle the situation alone, it is important to seek help from those who know the most in the field.
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