When to Put a Dog Down for Aggression - Reactive Dog Training Video Podcast Episode 20

[@RobertCabralDogs]

for information on my Online Dog Training, check out: robertcabral.com/training/yt

[@kannonhouston6754]

i know I am kinda randomly asking but does anybody know a good website to stream newly released movies online ?

[@damaridamien4999]

@Kannon Houston Try Flixzone. You can find it by googling =)

[@finleyquinton1545]

@Damari Damien yup, I've been watching on Flixzone for years myself =)

[@kannonhouston6754]

@Damari Damien Thank you, signed up and it seems like a nice service :) I really appreciate it!!

[@damaridamien4999]

@Kannon Houston You are welcome =)

[@cmsbeth]

I am a dog lover AND an ER nurse. It amazes me when a dog owner advocates for the dog that bit their kid's face off. Prioritize the value of your relationships...human and animal. Thank you for your work Robert!!

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Thank you for that!

[@francesh2223]

B Johnson I am an ER nurse as well and completely agree!! However one day about 5 years ago, this 8 year old boy got bitten by his grandmas dog and the boys dad snapped the dogs neck. The boys injuries were severe, he lost an eye. The grandma was furious and tried to charge him!!!! Like seriously. I love my dog so much, but if he ever attacked my kid....my lord.

[@cmsbeth]

Wow Frances! That was traumatic for everyone involved in that very sad day! What a mess to try and sort out that bottom up dysfunction! Sorry you had to deal with that.

[@smokeywick7100]

Yes, kids need to feel safe at home and it's unfair to the child to be expected to forgive the dog and be around the dog post-attack. The owner or designee can still give the dog a loving end of life. Win-win.

[@kfc3930]

Sorry to say but honestly id pick my dog over anyone

[@lindamcgregor4080]

Thankyou for this podcast. A few years ago I had to have my doberman pts because of fear aggression. I got this dog when it was 15 months old. As soon as I got her home I could tell that she was very nervous of people. I was able in a short time to gain her trust. I taught her how to eat bones and enjoy treats and toys. Yes, she never knew what to do with them at first. I was also able to take them from her and return them, with no signs of aggression. She was so docile with myself and my adult son, and very loving. I fell in love with her almost immediately. If anyone else came over she would attack them and I would put myself between them so they could remove themselves from the situation. She never went for me. It was when other people came close to me, I believe she thought she was protecting me. She also started to attack my other dog, a husky. I had several dogs over my life, including other Dobermans. I tried to rehome her after about 5 months, but she would go for anyone who came over. I tried rescue groups and was told that they wouldn't take an aggressive dog. I had to make a really tough decision. I refused to take her to the local pound because I knew it would terrify her. My biggest fear was that if she was to escape ever, highly unlikely, that she could attack and possibly kill a child. So I made the decision to have her pts at my vet. I forwarded them before I went, and was let in through the back door. Although I didn't want it they insisted I put a muzzle on her. She was terrified. I asked for a few moments to say goodbye and try to reassure her. I couldn't stand seeing her so frightened, and called the vet to start the procedure. I held her in my arms as she slowly drifted away. I was heartbroken, I truly loved her. I broke down when I got home, I felt I had let her down. Your podcast helped me to finally forgive myself. This was about 6 years ago.

[@lovejumanji5]

Hugs from my heart linda

[@themoog924]

Thanks for addressing this issue, I had to put my dog to sleep last year due to persistent, unprovoked aggression. It's one of the hardest things I've ever had to do and have been haunted by guilt ever since. Hearing a more experienced trainer such as yourself back up my decision really helps.

[@ragtimegals]

The Moog what breed and what was he doing?

[@themoog924]

@@ragtimegals He was half Weimaraner, half staffordshire bull terrier. This first incident happened when he was startled when out walking and he bit a man, which is understandable, he then bit a visitor to the house. After these incidents we obviously kept him under very strict control around strangers, but he then attacked my wife when she tried to discipline him (verbally) when I was out at work. I should have got rid of him then really, but I really loved the dog. The final straw came when he bit my child when he tried to pet him. I didn't feel happy rehoming him, so I made the decision to have him put to sleep. I've since got another dog (Husky/retriever cross from a rescue centre) who has settled in amazingly and is a great family dog. I'd had 4 weimaraners before the staff mix, all of which amazingly well behaved, I still feel very sad about the whole thing, but on the plus side, he did, for the most part, have a great life when he was with us.

[@ragtimegals]

The Moog I’m so sorry to hear that :( I adore dogs but I think you absolutely made the right decision for your family and others.

[@themoog924]

@@ragtimegals Thank you.

[@keiheaherakiwi1611]

The Moog I feel for you I put my dog to sleep a few weeks ago as he was too aggressive after 10 yrs he escaped the yard and attacked a small dog . I was devastated but knew I made the right decision. I worked hard to keep walking everything we got at under 1 yr old it was something he just did. I still hate my decision but knew it was right

[@Dav-S5658]

Thank you so much for this honest video. I have made the decision to to put my dog down today, and my gut is in a knot. He has a history of animal and human aggression going back to when he was maturing. I am not inexperienced with dogs. I have researched and tried every possible approach. I honestly believe he has a neurological problem. I can't kennel him, and even vets don't want to treat him. I have a terrible bite on my hand now for simply trying to take his collar off, and this simply can't go on. He is 4 now. He isn't going to change. This video gives me some peace for a decision that is so painful.

[@YiggityYins]

Holding your words close tonight, Robert. Having to make the tough decision and found your channel. Thank you for your expertise and support.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

😪

[@J4YD4EDH]

I had to make the horrible decision to put my aggressive rescue dog down tomorrow and I needed to hear this to more understand that I’m not being unreasonable or a bad person but man it’s hard

[@RobertCabralDogs]

You’re being responsible. Few people are strong enough to make this kind of decision. Instead they pawn it off on shelters. I’m so sorry. I understand - you are doing the right thing.

[@J4YD4EDH]

Robert Cabral thank you I needed that:)

[@y04a]

​@@RobertCabralDogs I don't want to pawn my dog off at a shelter, and I don't want to unjustifiably take her life. I'm trying to decide what is right. She is extremely loving and loyal. That said, she can't be trusted around other dogs because she became aggressive when she started to mature. At first it was just possessive of her ball, so I stopped taking her to dog parks. She was bit by a dog once, and though she fought back, she didn't draw blood, whereas the other dog did. The only time I had her around new dogs in the past year she lunged and bit both dogs seemingly out of nowhere. She has lunged aggressively as if one step away from biting one of my roommates and it really scared him. Her guarding instinct is intense and seems to be getting more extreme despite me trying to train it out of her. I basically live a very isolated life now because I try to avoid my dog being triggered, and it's just me and her. I'm starting to have worse mental health struggles and am very stressed out. Due to financial strain I can't afford more training anytime soon, and I'm not sure it would make enough of a difference anyway. Same with if I pay for medication to calm her down. I'm just at my breaking point and know I have to make a change so I can keep my life together and keep showing up to work okay, sleeping etc. It feels like my dog runs my life in a way now, and she is my best friend, but it's not working. Do you think from her behavior that rehoming is more responsible than euthanasia at this point? Thank you.

[@y04a]

*she is almost 3.5 years old now, and a husky/shepherd/pitbull mix. Many people are afraid of her bark and often scared of her when she displays certain behaviors

[@y04a]

Last thing to add. I started working a second job at a farm and brought my dog. The owner said I could have her off leash but she found a chicken and would have killed it if I didn't get there in time. Also when she lunged at my roommate I was able to hold her back on her leash, but the fact is that I don't know what would happen if I didn't hold her back. I will be living with roommates who come and go for the next few years at least, and that's what makes it difficult to keep her. If I had my own walk out basement with a backyard it would be a lot easier and there's no way I would be considering euthanizing her. However, it's not possible for a long time. I ended up quitting the second job also, because it was just too much. My instinct tells me not to ever trust her around young children. Am I over reacting?

[@blaquekatz9410]

Putting my dog down this AM for this reason. Crying all morning questioning if I'm doing the right thing or if I did something wrong. I did a search on KZbin and your video popped up first. I couldn't live with myself if she hurt someone else. Thank you for letting me know that I am brave and strong and decent for what I'm doing. Those thought did not cross my mind and now I feel supported in my decision.

[@dianalopez876]

I'm in the same boat I feel s traumatized,,scared and hurt all at the same time 😥💔

[@janetteesteras7183]

I've been stalling for 3 years ..hoping he would chill out but my fear doesn't allow me to trust him wholeheartedly ...and im no good for his sake ...and I cant risk a family or child or anyone to take him and something horrible happens

[@suzettekirby9725]

Get a good trainer there's good ones out there

[@mamadude505]

I’m sorry. I’ve been there and I know how bad it hurts. No amount of training could have saved my boy.

[@janetteesteras7183]

@@suzettekirby9725 they ask for 6000 to board and train with no guarantee..I don't have 6k to throw away ..others don't think short term training will due so they decline me

[@jonathanramiro2162]

YOU ARE NOT A PC KIND OF GUY AND I LOVE THAT , MORE VIDEOS PLEASE .

[@DominiqueB165]

Solid advice. The pets I have to put down because of illness all died in our arms peacefully, it is the last gift we can give them and we owe it to them. Putting down a healthy pet because of aggression issues would be hard, but I could not justify putting children or even adults at risk, and certainly wouldn’t pass the problem to someone else. Think long and hard before adopting because that’s part of the contract.

[@lauragill9484]

Exactly. I even thought of re homing one of my dogs. But I thought it through and it wouldn’t of been fair to anyone else. He was a liability. I had to be responsible for him. It was heartbreaking...

[@visitor3756]

Laura Gill Ditto had to do same. It was heartbreaking. I tried rehabilitation. Didn’t bite me but a fear biter. I worked really hard to have boundaries with him. But bit my spouse. So sad. I had someone ask for the dog for protection on property. No couldn’t do it. What if someone became a innocent victim again.

[@spacecoastdogtrainer3778]

Something that Dog Trainer Joel Silverman says "Bond with your heart and train with your brain" has stuck with me. Not just for training the dog, but all decisions with a dog. We CANNOT make emotional decisions about a dog. We must make decisions using our brain with critical thinking skills. Anyone who thinks a dog takes precedence over a child should not be allowed to have either.

[@vikingdogmanship]

Kids do need to respect and learn how to behave around animals! Kids and dogs should never ever be left alone!

[@alipetuniashow]

??.

[@richardrybarczyk5522]

The hardest decision I’ve ever had to make was to put a dog down. It’s so hard to do but sometimes it’s necessary because of health issues or aggressive behavior. I couldn’t live with myself if I knowingly rehome or keep a dog that would harm someone. I know some people will never say that it should be done but I agree with you. On another note I’m so sorry for what happened to your father.

[@emdueck6250]

I was looking at getting a dog a few years ago. Met a large dog (some kind of ridgeback mix) named Jax. We live in the middle of a crowded suburb and we asked if we could take the dog for a walk to get to know him since he was clearly stressed by the other shelter dogs barking at him. We were told NOTHING about the dog's history - just "here's some poop bags, a leash, and treats, have fun". While out on the walk, we passed a family. Jax lunged at the child and started snarling, hackles up, the whole nine yards at a four year old child. The only indication we had that there would be anything wrong was "best suited for homes with older children" and we had wrongfully assumed it was due to his size and young age. I'm grateful he didn't make contact with that little girl and absolutely furious that we were allowed to take him in public without knowing his past. They didn't want to tell us that this dog has baby aggression. The whole reason he was given up in the first place was aggression towards his owners' infant and we only found that out after insisting to see his file.

[@zsuzsuspetals]

There are some shelters and rescues that are so unbelievably irresponsible like this. They should be shut down. To be so fanatical to try to adopt out a dog that they lie and put people in danger. And any worker or volunteer who does this should be in jail. Look at that woman in Virginia Beach who adopted a pitbull that killed her mother the same day. She found out afterward they lied about the dog's history. He had been turned into a shelter in New York to be euthanized for aggression. Shelter workers on both ends lied and transported him out of state. Like Virginia doesn't have enough pitbulls they needed to import one from NY? Every person involved in that should be in jail for murder, imo.

[@VV-tj5qv]

Please don’t excuse yourself for being honest. Thank you for all you do and keep on teaching us.

[@stephanies1474]

My new favorite trainer. So refreshing to hear common sense and truth.

[@sabinaueblacker3740]

he's so good

[@sunleo6161]

same

[@sarah-ashleyboling1719]

The kindest thing is honesty. The shelter behaviorist brought our dog back from an assessment and said she needs to be euthanized. He explained exactly what was said in this podcast. He didn’t give us false hope that a perfect family/person would come along. He said she would live here for 6 months if you chose to surrender and she would deteriorate and be put down anyways. We were told by our vet after a physical check of her that the only way to manage her was to have two separate households, which is no kind of life. We kept holding out hope and she attacked our infant unprovoked and luckily didn’t maul him. He escaped with stitches and we learned a valuable and fortunately not a costly lesson. We made an appointment and held her and told her we loved her as we let her go. We have cried and cried but nothing is more valuable than a human life.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Amen. Sorry for such a tough decision. You did the right thing.

[@sunleo6161]

You did the right thing.

[@xenozeno]

So you let it attack your baby. What kind of parent loves a sick, vicious dog more than he cares about his child's safety? Parents like you sacrifice their kids on the altar of dog obsession.

[@allenszykula8071]

I live with it as a trainer I took in a dog from a rescue for training he can never be rehomed or trusted with other people he can walk in public and behave but no one other then a small handful of people can pet him. Do to an underlying traumatic event that really messed him up at a young age before he came to me great dog but knowing his ability and respecting it is paramount to keep him and others safe.

[@johnortega2605]

Thank you for posting this video. I was recently fostering a 1 year old Great Dane mix that was given up because of unpredictable resource guarding with his family that got him as a puppy. With me, he was great for about 3 weeks. We walked, ran and hiked at least twice per day and had play dates with other dogs. Then one night, he sarted showing aggression over his space or a toy or ???? Trying to scold him or correct the behavior didn't work - he showed no remorse in that state or even recognize me any more. I learned to protect myself by staying away at night (when the behavior happened). I would just let him be. Sometimes I would leave the room if I felt threatened. When he was alone, he would come and find me and want to snuggle. 99.99% of the time, he was sweet, loyal, and fun. He was very fit and healthy, he loved other dogs, never fought, was good with other people. But since he exhibited that behavior in 2 homes, the rescue decided he was no longer an adoption candidate and was going to be euthanized. I was not able to adopt him myself, and struggled with the decision to euthanize him for a few weeks. I ultimately decided to do that, as it seemed to be the most humane thing to do. I wanted to be there with him at the end. I thought it was NOT right to put him in another home where he would probably do the same thing - especially since there are so many other dogs out there needing homes. And I didn't think it was right to take him to a 'no kill' shelter where he wouldn't have human contact - it would be like prison. I hugged him as he passed and told him how much I loved him, that I tried incredibly hard, and that I was so sorry. I cried and wanted some other outcome. But that's what happened 2 weeks ago. Even though the rescue, the vet and all the volunteers supported that decision, it''s been hard for me to accept since he truly was a good friend.

[@juliesdroidsync]

probably the best, most informed, most balanced opinion I've heard on the topic.

[@PatrickJDaley]

Thank you for addressing this issue. I adopted a wonderful sable GSD who was abused, she was very untrusting of strangers, she was 6 mo old. Now at almost 3, she has become an awesome dog. She is now very good with strangers. Loves children! I feel that the love I showed her and her older "sister" , a B/T 8yr old GSD have showed her that not all people are bad. I have the same beliefs about dogs that are aggressive. It sucks, but sometimes you can't save them all. She is my 3rd. Rescue dog. All have been exceptional dogs.

[@vikingdogmanship]

I think it might be you that is an exceptional good owner too thoe😊🐶

[@danfaller1089]

Any working or high drive dog ,you better have two hours a day for at a minimum, or get a pet rock .

[@on_my_own_two_feet]

I really like the idea of a pet rock

[@HaroldoB]

I wish it was only 2 hours 😬

[@LenzaPenza]

We got a kelpie and almost all free time goes to training. We do obedience, herding and started agility and exercise the dog 2-4 hours a day but we knew what we were getting and do it with joy. Working dog demand a lot but are also so much fun

[@perfectweather]

My Jack Russell breeder had two litters a day apart and I asked for the highest Drive puppy out of the two. I've had Pilot on the farm for a few months and I've never spent so much time trying to run the batteries down on a puppy. He's the most eager and malleable dog I've ever worked with, and I'm as exhausted as I am happy.

[@vikingdogmanship]

@conservative atheist So true!

[@CCOREY5]

Kudos on talking about this. Yes, there are mentally unsound dogs. These dogs are born this way and no training will ever make them 100% safe. Others are made difficult/aggressive/fearful though experience, and often they can be rehabilitated by knowledgeable dog people with experience. But...I’d like to put in my 2 cents about the GSD. Just from hearing what you said about the the GSD in the first case...my thoughts with over 20 years GSD experience...are that CLEARLY something happened at the dog boarding facility he was placed in, that created this aggression issue. That needs to be looked into before any diagnosis is made. It is just hugely unlikely that a GSD, at 10 mo of age, raised appropriately and fairly, with no prior signs of aggression, will display sudden biting tendency out of nowhere. It is telling that the owner says this happened the first night after the dog came back from boarding. Folks, do not place your young GSD into a boarding facility, ever. Unless, you know 1000% that the facility is good and you personally know the person that will handle your dog. A boarding place is a money-making business and some do not have your dogs best interests at heart. Want to risk screwing up your dog?...then go ahead send him away to where you have no control over what your dog experiences. If you do, don’t be surprised if you get a completely different dog back. A GSD at 10 mo might be right in the middle of a „fear phase”, or an “unsure and insecure of themselves” phase. GSDs have these phases as they grow into adulthood, which they don‘t reach until they are at least 2 or 2.5 years of age. GSDs are ‘thinking dogs’, and they take a while longer to mature. At 10 months of age, that is a common age for a fear phase....and sending them off to boarding at this time can be detrimental to mental development, depending on what the dogs perceives, or actually happens, to the dog. I hope it works out for the dog.

[@arlene4299]

I put my year old female GSD is a board and train place. I did not know the people personally and most people will not know the people personally. I did however read the reviews and spoke to the owner at the board and train before I made my decision. Putting her in the board and train was the best decision I ever made. She was totally out of control and had very unmanageable behaviours before she went in to the board and train. She came out a lot happier, balanced and very well trained. She is a totally different dog now. I spend hours with her every day outdoors on and off leash. The board and train facility did everything they said they would do for my dog and more. She has a great life now but I highly doubt her life would be great if I ended up getting rid of her. Board and train facilities can literally save a dog's life. I know this for a fact because my dog's life was saved.

[@vikingdogmanship]

I dont know what kind of boarding facilities and trainers you have experience with. The younger the dog, the better actually! It's usually the owners that screw up the dogs. Had a family that came with their 10 month old GSD... was horrified about how little work they had put in to this poor dog. It would have put down if we wouldnt be able to help them. Thankfully the family also got trained and owners and dog are happy and confident. 🐶 We also got a 12 year old GSD in because the owner died. It was the saddest story ever😢We decided to keep the dog, got a great bond and she stayed with us for almoust a year before she had to be put down because of cancer was eating her up. We stayed with her the whole time. Now she is with her papa in heaven💝 I hope i will someday meet her again up there! she was a special kind of dog!

[@CCOREY5]

Viking Dogmanship and Arlene - as I said, make 1000% sure you know the people training and handling your dog IF you decide to board and train. The issue I have this board and training is that the owners still don’t know how to train a dog. OR keep the dog trained. It is not enough for just someone else to train your dog. If you do not build your relationship with your dog, and learn to train him properly, the dog will not keep that training. It is a myth to think a board and train will train your dog forever, and that’s all you have to do. I realize there are a lot of you readers who run a board and train...so don’t bombard me with “its the greatest thing” stuff. And for you others that have had good experience doing it...good for you. But it could also have gone very wrong. If you can’t handle a working dog, train a working dog, don’t have the time for a working dog, don’t get one. And if you dog has issues, and you’ve had him as a puppy, 99% it is your fault. NO EXCUSES. If you adopted a dog that is too much for you, go with him to be trained...you need to learn too. Board and train alone won’t cut it over the long haul.

[@arlene4299]

@@CCOREY5 I had my female German Shepherd as a puppy. She was put into puppy classes and had extensive socialization. My husband and I put in hours every day with her and tried very hard on our own to help her through her issues. It was her genetic background that made her anxious which led to behavioural issues. As a last resort we decided to put her into the board and train. They did a wonderful job training her and not only is she well trained, she is also a totally different dog. She is now happy, balanced and confident. I know this is something that my husband and I could not have done on our own. We are not professional dog trainers and most people are not. I did not know the board and train people before I put her in and most people will not. By the time people consider putting their dog in a board and train it's usually either that or get rid of the dog. We chose to keep our dog and give her the best possible chance for a good life, which she now has!! I did not have to learn to train my dog because the board and train did that for me. I do however take her out every day between 2-3 hours. During this time she gets off leash fun with other dogs and playing fetch because she has been totally off leash trained. I also continue to work her on the stuff the board and train taught her to do like off leash heeling and recall. She also gets a structured walk every day. She has been out of the board and train for 7 months and she is still totally awesome off and on leash. Our dog has a wonderful life and she is very happy because we made the decision to put her in the board and train. Every day I thank god I did that and I know that was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. Do not blame dog owners for behaviors that the dog has. More than likely it was the breeding of the dog that is the issue. Good dog owners try to get help which is what we did. I agree there are probably some board and training places that are not good but the place I took my dog to was not one of those places.

[@beverlybalius9303]

I am 63, had dogs all my life and I never had to have one trained by anyone. If your dog lives with you in time he will be trained by you.

[@smokeywick7100]

I'm so glad you're talking about this. It's hard for people to make decisions about this and having a sound mind like you giving feedback and expertise about this is going to help a lot of people looking online for information while trying to figure how to handle their respective situations with a dog at home acting out. In my case, I hired a professional because I wasn't sure what the right decision was, and I needed help navigating a challenging situation I found myself in after adopting a shelter dog. Thankfully it worked out for us but every situation is unique. I wish the best for people finding their family facing these types of decisions and situations. Just remember even though a decision may be hard, it doesn't mean it is wrong. Good vibes to all who are doing right by dogs, especially when it's hard. I have the same philosophy about a dog only leaving my home through death. I had to edit my comment to fist bump you for that! After my adopted dog had behavioral issues, my neighbors would suggest that I just "give it back" and "they'll find a good home for it." Are you kidding me? "They" who??? No, the buck stops here. This dog had already been rehomed multiple times and I was not going to continue contributing to that. I hired a professional to help me figure it out, but rehoming was never an option in my mind. If I was not a good enough owner to figure this out and fix this dog, I felt like basically no one would be and it'd be a joke to see if someone else could give him a better home. I eventually responded to people with, "No, I'm not going to do that. If I can't handle him, no one can, and I will put him down." Sounds like an arrogant thing to say, but I just felt like I was smart enough to ask for help and I was all in -- this dog had everything going for him and if it wasn't enough, then it would never be enough and I would need to call it off. Again, I am so glad I never had to pull the plug and I have an awesome doggy buddy now and I have learn SO much through this experience with this dog. It's one of the BEST "bad" things that ever happened to me! I just feel like not enough dog owners feel like they have the authority and wisdom to end their dog's life at the right time. More dog owners need to take responsibility and do right by their dogs, and not run away from responsibility and their own emotions. Do the right thing, deal with emotions later. Do right by your dog and your family! Stop saying "JoJo ran away" and teach your children about the cycle of life and how to make wise decisions as a pet parent. Okay, end of rant. :)

[@joettaabston6537]

Thank you so much for the honesty. I am so tired of hearing people who only believe in positive training taking the side of the dog over the human.

[@AlpacaMade]

Thank you, you have reassured and comforted me; I am not one of those who wrote you, just to be clear. I had to take responsibility for the decision to put my Shepherd down 10 days ago. She bit a passing stranger in the blink of an eye, without apparent provocation. I hope this video goes viral and sinks in to those who think their dogs are their babies, accessories or status. I stayed with her and told her to go home when she fought the first injection. Please, whenever you have the opportunity to speak to Veterinary professionals, advocate for the dogs to be put to sleep quickly. There is no way to know if a dog will fight the first injection; if they do it is unbearable to be part of. She was the most beautiful and troubled dog I've ever owned but that is another story. Deeply grateful for your courage to address this subject.

[@kairisdiaries5592]

Alpaca Made you brought back some hard sad memories for me. I had to put my malamute down over 13 years ago. He was a great dog to me and a very small handful of people. He too would attack without reason. It broke my heart. He was only one. The vet was not able to give him the injection due to him fighting them. He was muzzled. The vet asked me to give him this jelly like substance from a syringe. It was to sedate him. This was the only time my dog growled and snapped at me. I was devastated. It felt as if he knew what was going to happen. I felt in that moment I lost his trust. So we tried to give him sedation in pill form. Mind you this dog never turned food down. Ever. Well he did then. My poor boy had to go out fighting for his life. It took the vet, two big men and myself to be able to hold him down to get the injection. He didn’t go as quickly as he should have. That was the worst day of my life.

[@DillRidge]

Kairi’s diaries what a horrible thing to live though. So sorry you had to go through this.

[@JoeMarrero-manvscode]

How did your dog have an opportunity to bit a passing stranger? Off-leash? Dogs often exhibit territorial aggression and resource guarding. These behaviors are inherited from wolves. Despite being domesticated for thousands of years, they still exist in all breeds. That’s why dog parks are bad ideas.

[@tamiam4367]

Yes, yes..yes! I think we should put child molesters & aggressive violent people down as we do aggressive dogs. You cannot rehabilitation them. Society does not need either!

[@_random_dude]

Drug dealers too?

[@davidw6828]

@@_random_dude yes.

[@stuffluster]

You guys are crazy

[@staceystrukel1917]

Awful.

[@nonameanonymous4080]

I totally agree. Killer dogs and murderous humans cannot be trusted EVER! If they can do it once, they can do it again and again since they already got the feel for it. They think killing will make all of their problems disappear. Anyone that thinks physical violence is the answer to most problems are a menace to society.

[@lauragill9484]

We have had a couple of bad dogs. We have learned the hard way that the issues were unfixable with one. We knew what to do, and that we needed to keep the dog separate from people other than family. One of them we had for 14 yrs before his hind end gave out. It was heartbreaking because even though the vet knew him he had to be muzzled. But our vet was great that he knew as soon as he could, he took the muzzle off before his last breath. Then we had a three yr old pit. I Loved that dog. (We got him at about a year old)But again, he had issues and had bitten. We kept him away from other people. He loved going to the barn with my daughter, and she always took him out with her. One day He went after her. He was on a leash in the house, and I can’t believe still that I got to him before he got to my daughter(she was 20 at the time she never hurt the dog, she loved him) but I grabbed his leash and pulled him. He turned and got me in the arm luckily I didn’t need a Dr. and i held him up on his hind legs and my husband took and put him away. Unfortunately after the fact and thinking back he had always had the tendency to do this. I just didn’t see it. We had a behavioral trainer come to the house and after 15 min, he said he would put him down. The behavioral trainer said he was very fearful, and that I mistook his behavior as not. I didn’t think the dog was afraid of anything. .( until after we put him down I thought about some of his behaviors.) We had had him with three different trainers. And not one picked up on it. It broke my heart, you can keep a dog from others, but family that live in the same house, you can’t. We have worked with to the best of our ability with our dogs, they all get training and I’m the consistent one with it. But I’m not a behavioralist, and missed quit a bit with my pit mix. So I understand the guilt, and realized my dog was unhappy ,and just not right. Did not know anything about him when we got him from the shelter. And i am there for all my dogs when the time comes for them to crossover. In the last 30 years we have had 9 dogs. Usually at least two at a time but had 4 at one time too. Now just down to 2. Being there when putting your dog down is one of the hardest things, and also the last compassionate loving thing you can do for your dog.

[@Marylu3172]

Thank you for this podcast. A couple of years ago we made the difficult decision to put down our loyal golden retriever. We rescued him from the mountain/desert in Idaho and he loved and adored me. But 11 days after we got him he bit my husband on the scalp. (11 staples to close the wound.) Several months later he nipped at and drew blood on my older son and a couple months after that he bit my youngest son on the cheek. The dog showed great restraint, (he was very dedicated and caring toward me) by not biting the children as hard as he did my husband. I have often felt great guilt and wondered if he could have been reconditioned. I now don’t believe so. He must have suffered some great trauma before we got him. Poor thing. 💔

[@brentkinsworthy4999]

Absolutely agree with the responsibility. Particularly if you are a breeder. Too many breeders try to put a reduced price on a dog that is a cull. By not being selective you are weakening the blood line.

[@naomi2899]

Thank you for this! I’ve been going back and forth thinking there might be a home that could handle my 2 year old shepherd who has bitten many people and has aggression, but I know he would seriously injure anyone and this video really helped me feel better about making the decision to put him down.

[@dcdc139]

We had a bloodhound/pitbull mix that was the greatest dog in the world, but with six known bites (one requiring a long day at the ER) we made the extremely tough decision to put her down. A management plan was strongly considered, but when you're only one mistake away from someone getting seriously injured, we had to draw the line somewhere. I miss her so much.

[@LauraHopkinsCDL]

What compassion and common sense. Luckily I have never personally owned an aggressive dog. I have been with them all for their last heart beat. I never cry so my Service dogs can leave without worry. Losing a dog after a life time is tough. I agree with all you said . Great video Robert on a very difficult subject. I am so sorry about your Father. Thank you Robert .

[@rebeccacarlson9166]

Absolutely correct. Be a responsible pet owner. Don't leave your problem at the shelter. And, it's not fair to your dog to leave them scared & confused in a crazy-loud environment.

[@shelleybruns2639]

Thank you Robert, I am sure that this was a hard subject to talk about, but thank you!!! I put my Pitbull mix to sleep because she was sick, old and unstable and I had her put to sleep. I held her head in my lap while she went to sleep! I put her sister to sleep two weeks before because she had Cancer and my friend who worked at the Veterinarian clinic and is a Breeder of Toy Poodles, gave me a puppy to help heal my heart! My Pitty cross had an Abscessed Tooth and I was afraid that she could snap and kill my puppy accidentally, she was sick with Kidney issues and I made the decision to put her to sleep. She was 9 and a half years old and she killed two of my cats, and one of them she grew up with!!! I know that it is hard to do, but if you love your animal, you will do the right thing for it!!! Thank you and thank you for your informative videos!!! God Bless you!!!

[@MegaStormxX]

Thanks Robert. We had a very reactive fear aggressive Lab x for five years. He was a wonderful dog and loved people he knew but couldn't be trusted. He had come from a shelter and had spent his first year in a puppy farm so missed out on crucial socialisation. Multiple behaviourists couldn't help him. I feel bad about it but when my parents moved to a more urban area we knew he wouldn't cope in a busier place. We opted to put him to sleep rather than rehome for the reasons you've stated. He was a loaded gun and would have hurt someone in the wrong hands. I had the vet come to my house and he died on my lap on the dining room floor. It destroyed me but I think I did the right thing.

[@elijahmelendez9864]

is socialization crucial for the pup early? why? how could that even deter it from being aggressive?

[@Acadian.FrenchFry]

Totally agree with everything you said. I worked with dogs for over 20 yrs. And in fact had Pit Bulls for about the same amount of time, and getting people to understand what they were truly bred for and to be a step ahead of them so they can be responsible Pit Bull owners is very hard sometimes.

[@aaronjess1608]

A relative of mine has two pitbulls they are very aggressive and have a biting history and they live in a kennel for a few years,not sure if dogs that live in kennels makes them even more aggressive but they can't take those dogs out to run around or anything

[@Acadian.FrenchFry]

@@aaronjess1608 Leaving any breed in a kennel or just leaving them anywhere with no mental stimulation or socializing will mess their heads up. When I worked with dogs there was a term we had called "kennel crazy". I used to volunteer at the Humane Society back in the 90's and dogs that spent too long in the shelter would sometimes get "KC". And just like a person they start to lose their mind. Dogs are social, intelligent creatures much like humans. Which is one reason why they are so close to us, we share a lot of similar traits. So when you have any breed that is more predisposed to aggression and you do something like just leave them in a kennel with no stimulus or socialization it will effect them. Whether it becomes repetitious, compulsive behavior or they become self destructive with things like chronic licking of a leg, etc. or they become overly aggressive. It's not just because they are Pit Bulls, it's because treating any dog like that is cruel and akin to throwing a person in the hole in prison. Dogs same as people are not meant to endure long bouts of isolation and sensory deprivation. Sitting in a kennel 24/7 is similar to that for any dog.

[@aaronjess1608]

@@Acadian.FrenchFry Sure absolutely.. his pits are very aggressive and have bit people about 3yrs ago.. he doesn't want to put them down but yes he doesn't like having to keep them in kennels.. I suggested to call an dog behaviourist that works with aggressive dogs and to look into that.. thanks for getting back and your help..

[@Acadian.FrenchFry]

@@aaronjess1608 I wish you and your relative the best of luck!

[@aaronjess1608]

@@Acadian.FrenchFry Thanks so much, have a nice day

[@amberbargstadt3222]

Thank you for this video. We had to put our 11 year old dog down in January. He had shown signs through the years with agression and we struggled with the decision to not put him down for years. We finally had no choice when he bit our son. Mind you this was the same child he slept with every night for 10 1/2 years and out of no where he lunged and bit him. The next day we made an appointment with our vet and he agreed there was no other choice. It killed all of us and still does but in my heart I knew it was the right decision to make.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

I’m so sorry for your pain. Your decision was one of compassion.

[@sherrilewis1142]

I had two dogs: a pit mix and a pit bull. My pit mix was 3 years old when I rescued the pit as a 4 month old puppy. I had a 6 year old Rat Terrier at the time as well. I am angry at myself for not thinking that raising a pit pup that grew up outside in a muddy kennel with its littermates would end up so horrible. I should have known something was up when both parent dogs appeared up for “adoption” less than a month after the pups were all gone. The pit pup was a bit aloof. I chalked that up to under socialization. I have rescued and rehabbed dogs before, so that was not new to me. Fast forward a month after getting the puppy. I had given all 3 dogs their own marrow bone in their individual kennels. I let them all out to play. I was at fault. I did not expect my Rat Terrier to walk into the pup’s kennel to sniff out the pup’s bone. I should have closed the doors of all the kennels. All dogs had been playing together super well since day one. This 5 month old pup attacked and severely injured my Rat Terrier. Vet visit and treatment was over $1500. My Rat Terrier was traumatized by the experience. Things calmed down. I was careful. No food, treats or high value items outside of crates, crate doors closed when not occupied. Immediately. That process worked for nearly a year. The now 1.5 year old attacked my pit mix. Dogs were of the same size by then and I was able to safely break up the fight. Both dogs did need vet care, though. NO stitches needed this time, just wound care and antibiotics. I reached out to multiple pit bull rescue groups, asking for help. They gave some advice, some methods, but nobody could take him. I continued to reach out to more groups. All were full. They suggested I keep looking. The final attack was my fault. I was rushing to get my two dogs ready for a trip to my sister’s house for Thanksgiving. The Rat Terrier had already been adopted by a family where someone was always home (the dog developed severe separation anxiety). The dogs did each have a bone in their kennel. I did not correctly close the Pit’s kennel. My older dog, the pit mix, walked over to sniff the kennel. My pit attacked him immediately and very aggressively. Blood was all over the room. My older dog was screaming as he tried to fight back. The only way my pit would release was for me to take a leash, put around his neck and, with all my strength, lift him fully off the floor. It was only when oxygen decreased to his brain that he let go. I immediately attached him to a piece of furniture and tended to my other dog. Both had wounds everywhere. Blood was everywhere. Both went to the ER Vet. I had to take dogs in separately because my pit never really exited the attack mode. I told the vet what happened, the history. I let them know that I wanted my pit mix treated first and his wounds addressed. I disclosed that I was considering having them put down the pit. They did not want to. The vet techs pleaded for me to rehome him. I explained that he needed a rescue experienced with extreme resource aggression. The Vet herself did not want to put down the dog. They all kept telling me to rehome him. All I could think of was this, which I told to the Vet herself: What if he is rehomed to a dog-free home, but for some reason he no longer gets along with people, especially kids? What if, that dog-free home becomes lax and has over a visitor with a dog? What if there is a toddler in the home and the family lets that toddler walk around with a peanut butter cookie in its hands? What if the kids drops the cookie and BOTH dogs, or just the one dog wants the cookie? What if my pit loses his mind again over the treat? What if a fight ensues and that toddler is injured, or killed? I COULD NOT LIVE WITH THOSE POSSIBLITIES! I told the Vet that the most responsible thing for me to do was put down the dog I loved. Yes, I loved that pit. He was so sweet, adored me, was obedient, always wanted to be near me, could seem to sense when I was depressed. He walked great on a leash, got along with my cat. He loved my family and all other people he met. He was beautiful. All but this ONE thing. The Vet again asked, are you sure? I said yes. She gave my pit some meds to help with pains of his wounds. She laid a blanket on the floor for him. She gave me towels to wrap him up. She gave me time. I laid on the floor with my boy, my pit, for FOUR HOURS. I talked to him. I loved on him, pet him. I apologized for failing him. How we all failed him. The people who owned his parents failed him by keeping him outside, making him compete for food and for not taking time to socialize him. I failed him by not slowing down to make sure EVERY time they had treats or food that everything went the way it should. Securely. I failed him by not getting help after the FIRST time it all went wrong. I held my boy while the Vet administered the euthanasia drugs. I laid on the floor beside him. I held him. I spent time with him, tears rolling down my cheeks as he took his last breath. It was horrible. Many people get angry about this. Them? I had to do this. Not them. It was the responsible end. It sucked. Criticize me, if you will. I still tell the story. I cannot be the only one who had to make the hard decision to put their own dog down for reasons other than medical. I need them to know they are not alone.

[@rebeccanichols8205]

I just had my 11month old pit’/blue healer euthanized. I can’t stop crying wondering if I did the right thing. I had been staying with my daughter for last 2 months she has a 11 year old female and a male pit. They all got a long so good and I noticed she was getting possessive of me and my daughter then she started attacking the female viciously for no reason then she started attacking the male then growling at my daughter! This all happened within days, I had to keep on dog leash at all times putting her bedroom. My vet said exactly same thing she has aggression issue and it will probably get worse I feel better and realized I did the right thing now reading your comment and watching this video. It was hardest thing I ever had to do though.

[@NallaKimri]

Thank you for this topic. After managing my aggressive GSD's behaviors for seven years we finally made the decision to put her down last year. (She was a rescue, about two or three years old when she was adopted) It was agonizing to make the choice, but it was the right choice for our situation. Thanks for addressing tough topics in a balanced manner.

[@karliromyn1101]

@@threadhoney9445 I’m in the same mindset and my thought process is to put my dog down. Every day her aggression stresses me and it’s impacting my health and quality of life. If she ever needed a vet visit, it would be impossible.. I will get but if I muzzle train her, she has a bite record like crazy, including my face this past December.. it’s like March now and she lunged at a lady walking by us today. She is unpredictable and unstable, it’s causing me anxiety and depression.

[@conniegiacobbe3872]

Gotta say I love your thoughts. Absolutely correct, I’ve have several dogs in my life in which I’ve held them through the final breath. It’s the toughest thing to do but each one was deserving of respect. Those dogs were all 13/14 years old. My dogs are family members until they die. I’ve been watching your videos for awhile, I had to put down my last dog about six months ago, she had a stroke the vet said. After saying I’d never get another one, well I’m getting another dog. I’m excited to be getting a Corso, and the thoughts of training one of these intelligent, beautiful dogs. I truly believe these dogs MUST be highly trained. I appreciate your balanced approach to training, I thank you for your time producing videos training and q&a.

[@Raelven]

Thank you for explaining how aggression has been bred into pitbull lines and is more common than people realize. Maybe it surfaces, maybe not, and you can't test for it like a disease.

[@rum-tumble]

Tough topic, thanks for covering this.

[@watchman4todayreloaded192]

Thank you Robert for tackling this difficult issue.

[@cutteross]

The best podcast of Robert yet! Thanks.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Thanks for listening

[@warthog30]

Thank you for this. We just made the agonizing decision to put my daughter’s dog down as he had aggression issues toward children and strangers. Your words make me feel better about our decision and we honorably were with him and loving him when he was put down.

[@carolyncooper8874]

Thank you so much for this. I’m heartbroken over just having made this painful decision. I trust you and your video brought considerable comfort.

[@williamgrimberg4048]

I’ve had a number of dogs, large and small . We don’t have a dog at this time and would love to have one but we know that to have a proper home and care for any pet it can be expensive especially ( as with people) as they get up in years . My point is , people should be made to know the ins and outs or the responsibilities plus the expense of owning a dog before they buy or adopt . And yes we have had to put our dogs down but because of old age and even though it was one of the hardest things to do , we knew and felt in our hearts our dogs had a great life while they were with us .

[@orcanerdc6204]

Love your podcast! Thanks for taking on these polarizing issues. I tried to adopt a dog and the shelters were full of bite histories and behavioral issues I don't have the mental energy or time to tackle. Off to a good breeder I went... My roadside rescue acts like a typical perfect family dog, but if only people knew the effort it took to get her there. On the reputable breeder topic, I'd love to hear you also cover reputable shelters. My friend just bought a dog from a puppy mill claiming to be a shelter. To me, it was obvious , but he still got the pup and it was diagnosed with Parvo a few days later. We'll see if it makes it...

[@rishimeher]

I am a going-to-be owner. I really appreciate your honesty and clarity of expression. I follow your vids and show them to my mom too as she is a little apprehensive of having a Bullmastiff because of the size; she is coming around. But i also enjoy your subtly slipped in humour. I replay those. Thanks for taking out time and making these vids. Ppl like me really need these.

[@merholland8707]

No backlash from me. I'm heartily sick of people excusing their predatory dog that kills other animals. I don't care if it loves you. It does not have the right to terrorize, maim and kill other animals or go after other people. Period.

[@vikingdogmanship]

I still feel bad for the dog. Because its the owners responsibility to know what they are doing. you have to have a license to drive cars... there should be licenses to own dogs to! So many owners thinks dogs are "teddy bears" and that behavior that can become a danger... they think is funny and cute... until something bad happens.. then who to blame...😣

[@anngreen3495]

I have been subscribed for quite a while and have never been more impressed than with this broadcast.

[@nancydefranco454]

Thank you. I have second-guessed my decision to put my beloved, incredibly smart Pitt down last July a million times. Your videos have given me peace.

[@susanjenkins429]

Thank you Robert for your support and advice.. As the saying goes..Dogs are a mans best friend but who wants a friend that attacks you or someone else unprovoked..like humans dogs can also be mentally unstable due to all sorts of reasons but mainly genetics. I always appreciate your sound advice.👍

[@jamesjustjames4066]

I just suffered my 5th dog bite from my puppy. He is only 7 months old. I noticed his food aggression at 4 months and have had a steady weekly dog trainer at the home. Training was going well. Today just like all the other attacks was unprovoked. Sitting in my chair no food insight and dog 3 feet away. I moved to get up and then he latched onto my pinky toe. Got him off but in the process he bit up both my hands. Never any warning. The dog trainer is saying that I should put my dog down. Going through some serious thought, but I know the real answer is to call the vet for an in-home put down. I love my dog his name is Druitt. I haven't cried since I was 14 now I'm crying at the age of 39.

[@shawnganesh2348]

Haha

[@practicalone2]

Sometimes the kindest thing is the hardest thing to do. You will never have to worry about the dog suffering in the future

[@lovejumanji5]

I’m sorry you’re going through this. Saying prayers for you .

[@Kevin-lm9ex]

Thanks for making this video. I went through this with my last dog. He was so dangerously aggressive with people and animals and then turned to children last straw he bit my three year old in the face. I looked to everyone for advice and they all said to our dog down. Vet his trainer even my pastor. And I did but it was the hardest thing I have ever done. But your thought process on this is right spot on. Thanks for making this.

[@xenozeno]

You let it bite your 3 year old in the face? What is wrong with you?

[@wasatchcars]

About 9 months ago I adopted a 3 year old terrier mix from a rescue group here in Utah. He at first was a stay in a shelter. He was so aggressive no one could get near his kennel. So he was scheduled to be put down. A rescue group took him in before they put him down. The rescue group had him for 6 months adopted him out 2 times prior. Each time he was returned for aggression. When I met him I was warned about his issues. But I was drawn to him for some reason he had no aggression towards me. Seeing as I live alone few visitors I decided to not just give it a shot but committed to make it work out. He is in my opinion 98% perfect acting in the house. But out side will not let anyone come close to the house. But spending time with him outside showing him what acceptable and whats not. He has come a long way and now I can see he will have a good long happy life. He still wants to kill the trash truck I let him have that one.

[@vikingdogmanship]

Wishing you and your new dog the best🐶Terriers needs alot of excersise and brain training💖one of my favorite breeds. So versitale!

[@debbiesmith2207]

Thank you Robert. I have an aggressive dog who absolutely can't be trusted around children or small animals. She has bitten me 10 to 15 times. Some of these were guarding issues, some were her approaching me as if she wanted affection and then getting snarly and snappy. In spite of all this it is not an easy decision to make. I don't take her around other people unless she's muzzled. She has two crates And a pen.... I've spent a lot of time energy and money on managing her aggression. This is a dog I can never cuddle . She is a lot of fun when we are training or playing, super smart and athletic. It is not an easy decision. I know it is the right one.

[@mattystewart8]

Can you do more video podcasts please? I really like this format!! Thanks for a great video robert

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Will do it seems to work for more people.

[@polarisb518]

I find your approach to training intriguing with the absolute softness, love and understanding on one side and the absolute harshness on the other. And...then comes this video with you addressing such a sensitive issue head on with a solution many won't accept or understand and yet...you explain your opinion with such tenderness, logic and conviction...you finally made me an admirer. I don't like all aspects of your approach regarding training but...you are one of the few I would want to hear their opinion. For me, you and McCaan make the best combination of online advice. THANK YOU !!! (With a 3 months old GSD female)

[@sakiloki4618]

As always your honesty is appreciated.

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

Thanks for having the courage to give your valuable perspective. I do happen to agree with you -- hard realities are things to be dealt with & not avoided. Some animals & some people, use up all their chances. We wish it were otherwise, but it happens.

[@Asptuber]

Your last part, about taking responsibility for your animal to the end is something I feel really strongly about. Absurdly enough this is the reason I will probably never provide a home for rescue dog or cat: all my local shelters/humane societies have contracts that stipulate that you can't put the animal down without their permission. And that is something I could never agree to. If I take on an animal it is my responsibility, I will never let someone else dictate that *my* sick, old or aggressive animal should continue to suffer.

[@MukiFPV]

Thank you for this, we just had a similar experience we know what we have to do and that it’s best for everyone and it’s gonna suck I just blame the previous owner who abused our sweet pup and made him the way he is

[@nicolebucell9276]

Thank you... Seriously. This what I needed to hear.

[@laramonroe3363]

Putting down my boy (adopted at three) for his aggression felt like I was murdering my own child. It was without question the very worst, most traumatising decision I have ever had to make and it did my head in. It threw me into inconsolable grief and a long depression. But it was the right thing to do. I breathed in his last breath - and I still can't even get through this message without breaking down. Yet, it was the right thing to do. Horrible, horrible, horrible. My next dog was so well socialised it's ridiculous.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Thank you for sharing this.

[@rebeccanichols8205]

Thank you so much for this video I put my dog down today for being very aggressive toward our other dogs she started growling at my daughter and was so aggressive she was out to kill the other dogs. Now that I watched your video I know I did the right thing. My vet said the same thing as you said.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Much respect to you!

[@terrietravis6780]

You touched on the issue that some dogs could be rehabilitated, even if they bit. I wish there was more discussion of how to distinguish when rehab might work. Of course you put down a dog who bites a kid, but beyond that you didn't say much about how to know if they were workable.

[@MollyGrue1]

... well, I think if you put yourself the question: WILL I ever trust THIS dog? I don't have dogs and I am afraid of many of them, but good friends with several ones. So, maybe this trust thing is a way to measure. Each time I went out dog-sitting I asked: Will he/she stalk or stop me in the middle of the night when I have to go to the loo? Will it bite my hands of at feeding time? When the owners said, no worries, I took the "job". Worst of them ever: 12 (twelve!) Dachshunds in one household. All of them uneducated, not even potty trained, moody, bored to death ... was bitten 3 times in 3 weeks. The owner is still breeding Dachshunds **rolleyes**. Met 2 or 3 other dogs I would not sit for 100 Euro per day. Small ones, by the way. Ok, back to topic. The question is always: Will I ever build trust in that animal? Could I understand what happened if something happened, like some snap or bite? Can it be avoided? Will I grow anxiousness around this creature? Or is there a mental bond? Call it a "mental leach". When I think, yes, I would trust that animal with my life and the life of any other human near him - ok, keep it. Whenever you suspect you cannot calculate the reactions and cannot rely on that "mental leach" in urgent cases, its a big warning sign. In my eyes. Its i. e. when the animal gets caught up in its reactions like feeling threatened and angered - and you cannot reach it any more whatever you do, the problems start. Same with hunting instinkt: The worst scenario (appart from the dog killing another animal which is illegal) is: The dog after some rabbit or roe in hot pursuit, crossing a road and whamm, crashing with a car. Horrible for all involved. So, try and get that bl*** dog trained so you can call him off at any cost - or keep the bl*** leach on him. Same with aggression, like said in the video: In the end, its a rotten live to be muzzled day by day because nobody can trust that dog? If you feel you have to muzzle him EACH time other people, kiddies, dogs, cats, are around, its a sad thing. And its by far worse than a keen hunting instinkt. I am not talking about situations like s.o. is seriously attacking me and this dogs goes between and defends me. Had that too with dogs that were not even mine but stepped between me and a human/or another dog and proofed bl***y right to do so. Mind: They "STEPPED between" not "ripped apart the suspicious opponent at once".

[@aky19832001]

Very few dogs make the cut as police dogs that actually last the duration of their natural life. It takes a special well bred and trained k9 to be solid, responsive and consitsnt.

[@lilbudgies894]

Great video beautifully explained. The only people who can handle a dog like that are not looking for a dog like that. Raising a working line GSD to a solid standard is an incredible amount of work, real commitment. The casual dog owner pops to the shelter... Gets handed a land shark

[@FarmerFpv]

I just started volunteering at the San Mateo Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA Adoption Center because of your Bound Angels videos. I will not get overseeing some of the Animal control officers tearing up after a work shift...

[@eddiecampbell1835]

I have 7 gsds all with my wife and children no problems But need to watch your dog. Bring him up right and he will look. Afer his family all the time my friend.. Great dogs. The best.

[@Śtẹlla-j5]

Hey Robert... Amazing video this is the finest I've seen you explaining how you feel and your opinions and your passion in your field .. once again you have proven that passion is key humane is key and being responsible and being an adult is key .. I love your opinions I love your structure I love your videos I love your website and I love the way you explain how to do what's right for the dog . And yes it's all about what's right for the dog !!!! what's right for our little buddies that live with us that holds memories and feelings as well just like us 🤘🤘💗💗

[@Butman.]

Thank you very much for confirming the conclusion I have come to after hearing many others opinion on the subject. ❤️ it’s A very tough subject but must be spoken about/shared... thank you so much for doing so.

[@djkoenig4716]

It's is both scary & heartbreaking if biting/attacking starts & one can't get it under control!

[@michellesorenson1292]

SOOOOOOO GOOD!!! Thank you! I'm so glad to hear your point of view.

[@stephanieharries7746]

❤😊🎉 love your measured and thoughtful approach to how you respond to these comments and how you you know just basically give everyone the best benefit of the doubt I have to say though that I have a Chow she's sitting right next to me in this chair and when I got her she's not now but when I got her when she was 7 weeks I couldn't find anything positive about child she was left in the vet office before they opened as a puppy and so I let lots and lots of kids play with her and getting her face I got her face a lot cuz I remember when we have her around children she just basically sits back and take the garden approach she likes kids she's just very very good with everybody and I really think proper socialization as you say was a big key of that😊. I can give her a fantastic bone and just reach down and take it out of her mouth and of course she does she'll just be still while I do it and I can do anything with her she does whatever I asked her to do would really I should say whatever I tell her to do

[@williamgrimberg4048]

A friends wife went under a dining table to cuddle their large dog that they had for a couple of years. The dog bit her face disfiguring her . I and they don’t know why this happen because the dog never showed this behavior before. She may have startled the dog when it was asleep,either way they put the dog down. It was a very sad situation .

[@suesmith7946]

A friend of ours had a little 2yr old boy who was bitten by their good friend's husky the same way. Dog was sound asleep under the table and their son went under and grabbed him. The dog automatically swung out of sleep and grabbed. It let go straight away. The boy had a couple of stitches but his mum and dad refused to let their friend put the dog down. In this case they said it was their fault that they didn't keep their son away. I agree. The dog was fine and never bit anyone else. It was a one off only. If it was one that had shown signs of aggression previously, that would be different. You do have to weigh up what the cause was. Same as dog to dog aggression. It isn't always aggression, but usually reactivity, which can be fixed. Problem is, most people can't see the difference or be bothered trying to sort it.

[@MollyGrue1]

@@suesmith7946 people always learn not to startle horses and avoid nasty and even killing kicks. Same applies for dogs, right? On the other hand... I'm afraid of dogs I do not know and do not touch them until they signal me a friendly invitation. On the other hand, if a dog freaks out completely because of an innocent but unexpected touch, there is something wrong. Ok, abused, cornered shy dogs with lack of confidence might act aggressive or even bite but you could always explain that and it won't become a pattern. Some very peaceful dogs I knew (as a dog sitter, not an owner or trainer ;)) turned out to be keen defenders of their owners in urgent situations. But over-reactive dogs with an aggression pattern? I'm no dog person and least a dog trainer, but I doubt it can be corrected. Even my cats developed confidence and kind of an "aggression brake" when our bond grew. Same applies to any sensible animal, like horses etc. Bonding means: I won't hurt because you are my human, my family, and we take care of each other. If an animal is unable to develop that kind of bond ... well, I would not like to be a dog sitter in that household no matter how much one would pay me. And I made friends with the vast majority of dogs i took care of, most of them big dogs, GSH, several Rotti-Whatever-mixes, a canadian wolf-like shepheard, a Dober-Woman... all friendly, sensible and not a nasty bone in their body. There are lots of them.

[@sm25550]

I agree 100%. Society is irresponsible and it's so much easier to focus upon where things went wrong with that poor individual, the victim that victimized. Dismissing capital punishment because it "doesn't deter crime," as though it's about deterrence rather than justice and public safety. I was there when my co-worker's manager led him into a room to inform him that his mother had been murdered by a home intruder while he was at work.

[@elijahmelendez9864]

absolutely . as they were saying with these dogs, its a combo of genetics and environmental , i to this day have a problem being around people because of knowing how aggressive i get with unprovoked nuisance , just dont like being around others . those dogs , a lot of them need a one owner home, complete isolation . its funny how animal behavior translates into pathetic aspects of this life

[@tomquintero7583]

Best advice on the topic I've heard, good job, Robert!

[@marcyfox9508]

I rescue GSD's. I firmly believe these dogs need to come to the point that they earn EVERY bite of food they receive. It is a game changer. It does not have to be an ordeal, just no food w/o earning it. Could be a sit, or a simple behavior. These are working dogs-and this clarifies their relationship with their owner/handler. There are other rules that make me as successful as I am [novice-really, but I know what my rescues need]. They are basic rules to good dog/human peaceful interaction, but the trick is to be consistent and not frustrate the animal. Some primal dogs need different things than a more manmade type. A GSD is what I consider a more primal breed-long hikes are going to also be a game changer-destress time. I love my dogs, but they need structure too. Purely Positive training is very frustrating to them. I like marker based training [a clicker is a type of marker-clickers work well, or any consistent marker-not yelling, stressing, hitting-never works-that just injects energy into the situation-calm, collected is best]

[@theeliblog4559]

For people and animals alike, sometimes love, meds, and training just isn’t enough. Obviously everyone should get a chance at recovery, but if all options have been exhausted it serves no point to keep any living creature alive out of selfishness. Some dogs, regardless of breed, cannot be ridded of their demons. They aren’t bad dogs, but the world just isn’t made for them. I 100% BE in situations where its the only ethical and humane option left…

[@jwalker7097]

good video... I had to put an aggressive dog down 18mths ago ....he was my third GSD and he was gorgeous and smart and really well trained bar his unpredictable aggression. he would play with a dog and be submissive one day and the next he savaged it ....same with people he knew... fine one day next he would attack them....the last straw was when he bit my nephew. after three hours in his company being petted and relaxed he decided to attack him and bit down to the bone.... one of the most heartbreaking decisions I have had to make especially since we had just lost our 14yr old spaniel to old age just one month before.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

I feel for your pain. Doing the right thing sometimes hurt. Good on you for making such a decision.

[@whittakaren]

I had to do it with my four year old rescue GSD/Malinois mix. He was wonderful at first. Then he started being aggressive with other dogs on our walks, then some men, then it became any person besides the ten or so people he seemed to be okay with. He was gorgeous, well trained and very sweet with our family, he had a particular bond with me. But we could not take him to the vet. He snapped at two vets. It came down to the fact that if he can’t see a vet, we’re not able to care for him properly. I could never forgive myself if someone got badly hurt by my animal. People couldn’t come to our home. I’d been crying and agonizing for months. I’ll miss my guy tremendously. But I know it was our only recourse. It still breaks your heart.

[@zsuzsuspetals]

Thank you for addressing this topic. There are numerous people mauled or killed each year by dogs. In hindsight people will wish they euthanized. Don't wait until your dog has truly hurt someone. To think there are kids who will go through life disfigured from a family dog. I was reading all of the people killed just in 2021 and frightening how many dogs belonged to them or a family member and it was a dog they had for a long time. When a dog is unstable, there is no point where you are safe from an attack. Some people have dogs for years before something happens.

[@bettymcconnell1011]

looking at my girl one and half years I hope I never have to face a problem till she is old but you have made me think a great talk every one should listen

[@raegancowles6539]

I agree with you 💯. It doesn't matter what breed it is. I believe in culling dogs.

[@kobenoah1]

Ya, hardest thing ever is to need to put down a loved pet. Ive had to do this too many times with old suffering dogs and 4 horses. Always sucks! 😢

[@pennyrichmond9341]

I love the way you think and what you have to say. Sad, yes. But common sense.

[@jimgriffin4015]

Very tough subject, kudos for taking it on & giving solid advice

[@MassiveVictories]

2 to 3 mile walks every other day... Some type of play or mental/physical stimulation 30 mins everyday.... Make sure your dog is well fed. A lot of people don't feed their dogs enough. Feeding is an opportunity to train. Feed your dog even when they don't want the food and take it away when they don't eat what you offer. Feed by weight...

[@mattkavanaugh7497]

I watched your video for the first time last week after my dog attacked me and my brother. This wasn’t the first time it has happened it’s happened over 10 plus times and we kept believing he would get better but unfortunately only got worse as he started attacking my other dogs and when he would attack he would attack to kill I got him at 9 months from a very abusive home I had the courage to finally put him down and it was beyond the hardest decision of my life I feel like I failed him I continue to blame myself I’m hurting and heartbroken because he was really loved and it was just unpredictable man I loved that dog and I hope god can forgive me

[@cindimiller290]

Thank you for talking about this very difficult subject. God bless you.

[@julierocketqueen6257]

Man I wish this video played on loop at the local shelters and dog pounds. I agree with every word that came out of your mouth (hence why I’m BIG FAN of golden retrievers 😂😂). I wish people understood how serious and usually irreversible the aggressive resource guarding issues are and what a danger society is in because of people wanting to have a heart and protect these aggressive breeds. What a Better world it would be if we all knew all pound dogs were safe to take home as pets and not a gamble. Thank you for this video, it’s so great, and I hope it goes viral. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@julierocketqueen6257]

Also No offense but this is the most common sense I have ever heard come out of anyone’s mouth who lives in California 🐻 😂

[@pamelagay12]

Unbelievable... To hear someone like you advocate for putting a dog down under certain circumstances....people better listen up! I have always been a dog lover...any animal actually, so when at the age of seven, I was viciously mauled by a white GSD, my father would't tell me what really happened to the dog (Sammy...I still remember his name). He told me that he went to a huge ranch. At 65 you are still able to see every tooth mark that that dog caused, they are all over my body. When the dog was shaking me by the back of the neck (I now understand what that means) I was terrified. As I grew up he did tell me and we talked about the fact that it was absolutely necessary. I get it. I have had to put down horses, and after vet has sedated them, I put their head on a special pillow that I made, and hold their head in my lap until they are gone.. The vet always makes me go inside when the rendering is being accomplished. Watching your horse being dragged into the truck is just too much for me. That pillow has been under the head of every pet that we have had to put to sleep. Thank you, Robert, for your information, and as always, thank you for allowing us to see into your life. My father was also murdered, so thank you for sharing that, as well. And BTW...I have a GSD...just NOT a white one. Sometimes trauma lasts a lifetime.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Thank you for sharing that!

[@zsuzsuspetals]

wow that's horrible. People have no idea until it happens to them or a loved one. I LOATHE when I read pitbull advocates saying chihuahuas bite more. And I'm targeting pitbull advocates because I've literally never heard this from any other breed advocate in my 30+ years working with animals. Anyway, there is a world of difference between a bite and a mauling. Maulings can leave people disfigured, disabled or dead. There was just a woman this spring in SC mauled by 3 pitbulls who lost both of her arms. Not only is her life forever changed but all of her family and children who now have to care for an amputee is changed as well. And these dogs had a bite history. But the owner felt bad putting them down. Some people are so selfish they need someone else's life ruined before they do what they should have done sooner. I'm sorry that happened to you. It's amazing you are alive to tell the story so that's good you're still here.

[@Steve-ps6qw]

You nailed it...it is the dog owners responsibility and many wont accept that responsibility because they are self absorbed. I live in Miami, FL (a third world country) and the ppl here can be so callous with dogs....if anyone wants a purebred GSD or Siberian Husky, check the animal shelter about two weeks after Christmas and you can have your pick. They treat animals as if they were costume jewelry...they treat people even worse.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

So sad to hear. Not surprising but sad nonetheless

[@bshea937]

Robert, Thank you. Bravo. Needs to be said more often. Never ever understood the mindset that says I have a dog with serious problems to the point I can not deal anymore - let me pass on the problem to someone else ( usual an unsuspecting person). Hello if you don't want him why would anyone else. Again thank you for this video.

[@MsKariSmith]

This is a uncomfortable talk, but one that is vitally important. All and I mean all pet owners should know that like people there is a beginning middle and end of life. If your truly a good person, you will be there for your pet at all stages of life. It's super hard in the end, but be a humane person and do the right thing. I will always be there for my beloved pets.

[@patriciatimmons2736]

Great segment! Really enjoyed your show!

[@CiCiBlues]

My Service Dog in Training, Zuzu the Great Dane, had a quick and serious mental decline a little after her first birthday. She went from going to the zoo with me to being aggressive to almost anyone and everything. Unfortunately there was a bite and I decided to look for rescue(I’m in that networking group). She loved being boarded at my vet so I intended to keep her and others safe. She knew the staff, loved them before but when she arrived she tried to attack two different techs. My vet tried to reach out to rescues for immediate help but she recommended euthanasia. I blame myself everyday.

[@juleestoner3939]

My big girl changed after a litter. Don't blame yourself. It's hardest decision. 😢.

[@FlawlessImperfectionBeauty]

Please don’t blame yourself, I lost a Saint Bernard to the same issue. He was the most amazing and well trained dog, then at 18 months he snapped. He would stiffen, then lunge at anyone or anything near him. The rest of the time he was perfect, the vet couldn’t believe such a sweet dog could do it, until he saw it. I saw multiple vets, a behaviorist and trainer, they were all stumped. Then I spoke to the breeder, who burst into tears when I told them. Every single puppy had snapped around the same time time, trying to kill or seriously injured people. I had no choice, and I it destroyed me, I know I made the right choice. After necropsy, they all had a brain defect which didn’t appear until they had matured, and it was just a freak thing. All the unaffected dogs in both lines were neutered to prevent it ever happening again. Dogs, just like people can have mental illness, or go crazy. The most kind thing for them, and to prevent human or animal victims is to lovingly end their suffering. Please rest easy, you did the hard thing, but you did the right thing. ❤

[@remalm3670]

... Thanks Robert ... a very difficult subject that was well done ... Thank you ...

[@Tanyia48]

We just got a 9 year old Black Lab from an animal shelter. The dog has been at the shelter for 4 years and has had 7 adopters/fosters in that time. We have had him 33 days and all has went well until today. He is on a good schedule with no changes, Feed 2 times a day, takes a long walk in the evenings and get taken out several times during the day. I was cleaning in the kitchen and the dog came into the kitchen as always. I talk to him and pet him while I do the cleaning no problems. Today he came into the kitchen and he was a totally different dog he was growling at me and was standing stiff, low in the front. He face looked like he was possessed. I said to him "what's up "dog name" and he came after me. I turned my back to him and he stopped. I stood with my back to him for a few moments. I made my way to the dining room keeping my back to him. I got his leash to get his attention on something else. He loves going outside and jumps up and down when you get his leash. Not this time. It took another few minutes for him to snap out of it. And then he was back to himself. Confused. The rest of the time he is awesome. He sits, shakes, stay, can catch items when toss it to him. So not sure what happened. He was marked as aggressive and that was the reason he was returned so many times. He is healthy. Does have cataract in left eye and has had it for over 5 years according to his records. Had the vet check it and he can see out of it, but more like shadows. He has skin tags. As I said all was fine until today. Not sure what happened.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

pretty scary.....

[@andrewpappas7198]

Robert, your advise is always right on target. My only concern is the definition of "attack". When a dog nips someone who stepped on their tail, did that dog "attack" the person? Some people are quick to say "your dog just bit me (or attacked me)" even though there is no evidence that the dog attempted to harm the person. You clarify this at the end of the podcast, but I want to emphasize the point. Thanks for all your very informative videos.

[@RobertCabralDogs]

Nip and attack are pretty clear differences. I’d hate to think a logical person couldn’t differentiate.