So sorry to hear Buster has this problem. It is a difficult one to resolve as fear related behaviour is based in suvival so one has to be very careful when rehabilitating dogs with this problem. You may need the assistance of a properly qualified behaviourist so do look on the association of behaviour counsellors website or ASAB website for a clinical behaviourist. Meanwhile ensure you don't but Buster in a situation where he has to be aggressive - this will only reinforce the behaviour. Keep him at a distance far enough away from whatever he is aggressive towards so that he doesn't become worried. You can then reward him with play or treats for keeping calm. If he knows you will protect him by not putting him scary situations and you reward him for calm behaviour you will gradually start to rebuild his confidence.
Expert answer
Hi Lorraine,
So sorry to hear Buster has this problem. It is a difficult one to resolve as fear related behaviour is based in suvival so one has to be very careful when rehabilitating dogs with this problem. You may need the assistance of a properly qualified behaviourist so do look on the association of behaviour counsellors website or ASAB website for a clinical behaviourist. Meanwhile ensure you don't but Buster in a situation where he has to be aggressive - this will only reinforce the behaviour. Keep him at a distance far enough away from whatever he is aggressive towards so that he doesn't become worried. You can then reward him with play or treats for keeping calm. If he knows you will protect him by not putting him scary situations and you reward him for calm behaviour you will gradually start to rebuild his confidence.
All the best
Julie