Comparison of rehabilitation methods of aggressive dogs

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare efficacy of two socialization approaches: positive method and flooding. The research was conducted at Homeless Animals Shelters on 8 sterilized dogs, residing in the shelter for previous 6 months. The dogs were enrolled due to their behavioral abnormalities – active aggression stemming from anxiety. The special test of animal behaviour with grading 1‒6 was prepared and performed thrice: at the beginning of the experiment, halfway through and in the end. The dogs were divided into two equal subgroups, each of the subgroups subjected to another method. In the end 6 dogs were found eligible for adoption, out of which 4 were socialized with flooding. Dogs subjected to that method felt comfortable in new environment more quickly and it took them less time to trust their caregiver. Counterconditioning turned out visibly less effect in the group of anxious dogs.