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Pet Parent Question: My dog bites when frightened! What am I going to do?

06/04/2025
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  • TRAINING
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Dogs watching TV can be frightened

Some frightened dogs bite, but you can help train this behavior.

Some dogs bite when frightened. While it may not be your dog’s fault that they bite in response to an accident, you may want to stop this behavior.

The startle reflex is an animal instinct, and it’s not uncommon for sleeping dogs to bite when awakened by pets, kisses, or other physical interactions. Remember that this reaction is reflexive – not aggressive; It is important not to confuse the two.

Some nervous dogs also bite when they are awake and bite when someone or something interrupts their attention. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce surprises to your dog and train them to respond positively to unexpected methods.

 

Let you know your presence before you get close

Because eliminating instinctive reflexes is undesirable – and almost impossible – the solution here is to manage the situation.

If your dog lashes out when awakened by physical contact, make it a habit of clapping, shouting, stomping, or making other sounds from a distance to wake your dog before you get closer.

Equally common are “lively, nervous” dogs that bite when frightened in everyday life. This is likely to happen when the dog is preoccupied with other things.

Imagine standing in front of a window, fascinated by two squirrels happily chasing through a tree. Someone taps you on the shoulder, but you are so engrossed in the scene outside that you are shocked.

Now imagine your dog in the same situation, their reaction becomes easier to understand. Admittedly, in your case, you probably didn’t bite the person who surprised you.

But here, the key is to get your dog’s attention by making a noise before approaching.

 

Make positive connections with unexpected approaches

A red cocker spaniel is sitting on a gray couch indoors. He took a bite of the snack from his unrecognizable owner.
 

As for behavior modification, one technique is to pat your dog on the shoulder and immediately present a wonderful treat, such as a hot dog or cheese.

Practice when your dog is fully awake and not distracted. Repeat five times at a time, aiming for three to five times a day.

After a few days, or when you notice your dog expecting your faucet, try patting and healing them when they are slightly distracted. As soon as they raise their heads and happily look forward to hospitality, they gradually move on to more distracting situations.

For sleeping dogs, start this exercise when they are only napping. Gently pat them and throw away the snacks.

Important: To be on the safe side, use wooden spikes or other long stick-like objects to tap your dog; Once you start noticing their happy response when clicked, then you can use your hands.

Do it gradually until you can practice this training as your dog enters a deeper sleep.

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