[bredkumanfirst]

So I'm sure some of us have been there (i've been there more than I care to admit)
Naturally, being a responsible owner and avoiding situations where this might happen should be your first line of defence. However, even the most responsible owners are faced with this prospect. And if your dog is DA (dog aggressive) the chances of this happening are higher.


Of course your methods will GREATLY depend on the circumstances. I have found that a break stick is a must in my household. In the best case scenario, you will not be the only adult in the household. I also make sure that if there is a multiple dog situation that ALL dogs are collared, which makes for easier grab and possible twisting of the collar. Twisting of a collar will result in choking which in most cases will cause a dog to release. Yes choking a dog out sounds horrible but it's a very effective way to stop a fight....A dog that can't breath, won't hold on...
It's is also very important to keep in mind that jumping into the middle of a dog fight unprepared may get you injured. So as scary as it is and sounds, TRY TO KEEP YOUR WITS ABOUT YOU. Also, as soon as you've stopped the actual fight, physically separate the dogs into areas away from each other where they can't see each other.....I've had fights escalate again through windows and sliding glass doors.

Break stick: The break stick is usually a hammer handle that is sawed or shaved into a V shape at one end. You use it on the dog that has the hold. It's inserted into the side of the mouth between the back molars and then pried upwards for a release. NO PIT BULLS DON"T HAVE LOCKING JAWS....but their tenacity will keep them holding. I would NEVER recommend hitting over the head with objects as this will add fuel to the fire IMO.


I think that in most cases fights can be avoided....Once your familiar with your dogs body language and you practice responsible ownership (leashing, avoiding dog parks, slow introductions to new dogs etc) you should be able to read when your dog is getting aggro.....Sometimes even hard play can escalate into a snarf if one of the dogs is hot.