Jack Russell’s do well with experienced and creative owners who understand the dominating nature and energy level of these wonderful little dogs. Did I say ”little?” Don't let him hear that. He's confident that he's the biggest and baddest dog on the block.
Dominate and aggressive behavior in dogs takes on two basic forms. Aggression against humans and aggression against other dogs. When directed at another dog it's simply a combination of a singular lack of fear and the Jack's territorial and protective instincts regarding his toys, his home and his family. Actually anything at all that he's taken a shine to. Jack Russell’s seem to have a certain chip on their shoulders, eager to demonstrate how tough they are to anyone who wants to argue the point.
When directed toward humans the reasons for aggression are more complex. The relationship between aggression and dominance comes into play here. Your dog will never act aggressively toward you if you haven't invited the behavioral by allowing him to dominate you in some way. If he's allowed to call the shots around the house he naturally assumes that he should take over the alpha role. In a word, he's the boss.
This behavior is the result of thousands of years living as pack animals who benefited from a strict hierarchy in the pack. Every member had a specific place in the pecking order and the system was very effective in offering security and safety to the whole group. Jack Russell’s are programmed to assume that they are at the peak of the hierarchy unless you make it clear from an early age that that's your spot.
It's not a matter of suggesting that it might be a good idea. You have to step up and claim the leadership and make it clear that it's not up for discussion. How do you do that? Watch for signals that he's pushing the boundaries. He may dodge past to enter a room ahead or you or snap at you over a toy or his food. He may try to keep you from sitting near him on the sofa. (Remember he's not supposed to be up there in the first place.) He may insist on tapping you with his paw or whining as you try to read or speak on the phone.
If your dog exhibits any of these behaviors you may be sure his respect for your position needs strengthening. Now you need to take back your power. To do this you'll need to engage in a program where you do nothing for him unless he does something first for you. That can be a sit and stay before you allow him to have his meal. You will need to have him sit and stay as you go into rooms ahead of him. Have him lie down before you pat or praise him. You can use food treats to reinforce the good behavior.
If your dog exhibits active aggression toward you you'll need to address the behavior with assertiveness. If, for example, he snaps at you over his food, toys, bed or other things he considers to be his you should make a growling sound and say No firmly. Pick him up by the scruff of the neck and shake him gently. If he attempts to intimidate you into not sitting on the sofa or a chair simply catch him by the scruff and drop him onto the floor without apology. Quickly and firmly put him outside or otherwise isolate him if he shows aggression. Don't allow him back until his behavior is quiet and submissive.
If your Jack Russell deliberately bites you it is the same as saying that he's taken over the lead position and he's willing to hurt you if needed to maintain it. A near miss is a clear warning that he won't tolerate any more interference. If these things take place you need to get the help of a professional behaviorist before you or someone else is really hurt. Inexperience can actually make the problem much worse. Ask your vet to recommend someone to help you with this. You can also check out our dog training book for yourJack Russell Aggressive behavior.
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and energy level of these wonderful little dogs. Did I say ”little?” Don't let him hear that. He's confident that he's the biggest and baddest dog on the block.
