To communicate with each other, dogs use body language and guttural sounds, such as barks and growls. When they first meet, dogs use their body language to assess where each ranks in the pack order. Signs of dominance and confidence are a stiff body, head and ears up, hackles up and tail up. Signs of submission and respect are a lowering of the body, the head, the ears and the tail.

Because dogs instinctively know and understand these body signals, it only makes sense that we humans would be able to communicate with them better if we can learn how to imitate the ways in which they communicate with each other.

For example, dogs do not instinctively know the words that come most naturally to us. If two dogs meet and neither shows respect to the other, they will issue warning growls. This again is a language that dogs already understand. They do not instinctively know “Spot, don’t come any closer.”

That’s why experts say behavioral training is so important-and that lasting training isn’t about treats and physical punishment. It’s about understanding the way your dog thinks and communicates in a way that establishes the owner as “top dog.”

“Dogs are pack animals,” stated Liam Crowe, Bark Busters’ president, CEO and master trainer. “They have a specific way of interacting, which includes an instinctual manner of communication. Learning how to communicate effectively with your dog in a language he understands is the first step toward establishing leadership and control.”

So, while Spot and Rover might learn the meaning of a few words, they will learn more quickly if we communicate using their language. Once we communicate clearly with them by using a language they already know, then we can start to teach them some of our own language.

Learning canine is not hard. It takes practice, however, because it is not instinctive for us. If you watch Rover and Spot talk to their friends and then to strangers, you will begin to see certain patterns of communication. We learn how they meet each other, how they greet each other, and how they call one another to follow. We see how they let each other know when they are uncomfortable with someone getting into their space.

Using a dog’s own language to communicate with them is the quickest, most effective way of getting through to him. Thus, when we are trying to train our dogs, it just makes common sense to teach them in a language they already understand.

The post Speak Your Dog’s Language For Better Communication first appeared on Puppy Blog.

Despite their cute appearance, English bulldog puppies can sometimes be aggressive, and this needs to be nipped in the bud as early as possible, preferably before those big jaws and teeth do any real damage. English bulldogs act aggressive out of fear or because of their perceived dominance in your family. Bulldogs who fear strangers or your handling of them will bite out of fear. Those who perceive themselves as top dog can bite if you come near their food, toys, or objects that they are not supposed to have.

An English bulldog that has not been socialized will tend to fear strangers, so puppy training. should include socialization. Taking your puppy walking through the neighborhood or to a dog park or shopping center that allows dogs will help him or her see that strangers are not threatening. Try to expose your puppy to as great a variety of people as possible so that he or she will get used to people of various ages and ethnic groups. Classes in puppy training, in which puppies are taught basic commands such as sit, stay and leave it, can give your English Bulldog puppy a good chance to be around other people and dogs.

A dog who is fearful of you will also bite out of fear, so train your English bulldog using rewards rather than punishments. Instead of punishing your puppy for making a mess on the carpet, praise him or her for doing the right thing in the right place.

In nature young dogs jockey for positions as pack leader, second in command, and so on. It is natural for your English bulldog to try to become pack leader in your home, and if he or she feels like the alpha dog, it can lead to biting if you approach too close to your dog’s food dish or toy, or try to take your sock out of your puppy’s mouth. Good puppy training involves teaching your English bulldog that you are the pack leader. Eating your dinner before feeding your dog will show that you have dominance, because in nature the alpha wolf eats before the rest of the pack. Sleeping in your bed and having your English bulldog sleep in a smaller bed next to it also will demonstrate to your pup that you are the dominant member of the family. Training your English bulldog commands and giving rewards for good behavior will put you in the position of boss. Teach your English bulldog commands such as sit and down, and have the puppy sit or lie down before he or she is fed. If your puppy refuses to obey the command, withhold food until he or she obeys. Be sure your dog gets plenty of water during the time he or she is not eating.

Grooming can be a problem with an aggressive dog. Be sure to give your puppy lots of affection early in his or her life, so that touching will not be seen as aggression. When you groom your English bulldog, speak to him or her in a gentle, reassuring tone of voice so that your pup will not be fearful. If aggression during grooming continues to be a problem, a professional groomer might be the solution. Be sure to warn the groomer about your dog’s behavior.

Puppies go through a teething phase in which they will chew your socks, paper, furniture, and even you. Chew toys are available from your local pet supply store, and should be given to your English bulldog to satisfy his or her craving. When your puppy starts to chew the wrong thing, say, “leave it,” and offer the chew toy instead. Praise your pup when he or she chews the chew toy.

If your dog is still acting aggressive, biting and chewing the wrong things, then see a veterinarian or dog trainer for more advice. English bulldogs can be good pets with the right training and handling.

The post Aggression Biting and Chewing in English Bulldog Puppies first appeared on Puppy Blog.