Hi Cesar,

I have a nine-month-old Rat Terrier named Spike.  He is terrified of strangers - especially tall men - and becomes very aggressive when approached.  He has never been abused. We have had him since he was eight weeks old.  He was sick when he arrived and was not properly socialized around humans, and I think that is part of the problem.  It is now to the point where we cannot have visitors in our apartment without confining him to the bedroom.  He chases, barks, and nips at anyone who tries to approach him.  Sudden movements and noise set him off as well, and some nights he sits at the end of our bed, continually barking from a noise in the hallway.  He is so sweet to us, and I want others to have the opportunity to see what a great personality and loving dog he is.  All people tend to see is Spike in the RED zone - and most people are now afraid of him.

Do you have any tips for helping us to overcome his fear and aggression?  I hope to hear from you soon.

Thank you!

Laura Moore

Dear Laura,

In my own dictionary, in order to be considered in the “red zone”, a dog has to be the attacker.  Based on your description of Spike, he only becomes aggressive when people approach him, so he is not yet a red zone case.

Spike was in a weak state when he was introduced to you. Typically, when this occurs, the owner comforts the dog by giving him affection, which can foster antisocial behavior. Then, when the dog is well, the owner doesn’t practice leadership on a regular basis - or only tries to practice it when the dog becomes aggressive.

Spike will be able to show your guests how sweet he is when he feels respected. It’s important you tell your friends when they come into your home: “No touch. No talk. No eye contact.” By appearing to ignore the dog, they’re actually allowing him to come and smell them, which is basically acknowledging that they care that he is a dog and does things in “dog ways.”

You have to do your part, too! You must learn to master the walk. Seek professional help to show you how to walk the dog properly in different situations. I would recommend giving him plenty of exercise, so, when people come into your house, he is tired. Another suggestion is taking the dog to a swimming pool with supervision. This can boost his self-esteem and help him to become a balanced dog.

When Spike is properly exercised and people are approaching him correctly, he won’t have the need to defend his space, and you will be able to show him off!

Stay calm and assertive,

Cesar Millan