In this case, we are referring to a redirection as a release of frustration onto a target that is not the cause of said frustration. Here are a few examples:
- A human is walking Dogs A and B down the street when they see Dog C coming toward them. Dog A starts to fire up on sight of Dog C. Dog A works himself into such a frenzy due to his frustrations of not being able to get to Dog C, that he “attacks” Dog B.
- Dog A and Dog B are barking and running at the fence line when Dog C is let out into the yard next door. Amped up and frustrated at the sight or sound of Dog C, Dogs A and B start to tussle.
- Dog A is barking and charging the window inside a living room as Dog B walks past the house with his human. Dog A’s human approaches Dog A and grabs him by the collar in efforts to get him away from the window. Dog A is so worked up that he immediately turns and bites the hand of his human as it touches his collar.
Redirections are not uncommon in multiple dog households, but it’s important to manage your dogs in such a way as to limit their occurrence. Here are some tips:
- Do not leave your dogs unattended in the yard.
- Be sure to consider the important elements to a successful leash walk.
- Crate your dogs when you are out of the home.
- Go through a helpful obedience program so that you can better communicate and manage your dogs.
Like what you just read, can’t get enough of Unleashed Unlimited? Don’t worry, you can follow us on Instagram, check us out on Twitter, and like us on Facebook.
