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It’s a skill everyone hopes they’ll never need to use but should know, especially dog owners: how to safely break up a dog fight. Like humans, not all dogs simply get along. Even the most gentle mannered dogs are capable of a dangerous fight when provoked.
During a scuffle, a dog owner’s first instinct is to reach into the middle of the fight and try to grab their dog by the collar. This technique is not only ineffective, but also very dangerous. The odds of you being badly injured or bitten while reaching for a fighting dog’s collar are very high. Two furious animals in the middle of a serious fight are normally in survival mode. If they spot you at all, they likely won’t recognize you as the loving owner they are cognizant of. The moment you charge in and reach for their collars, they may respond out of a fight reflex and then bite, or they might perceive you as another threat or attacker.
While there are always dangers associated with breaking up fighting dogs, there is a way to do it that minimizes your own risk of injury.
Breaking Up a Dog Fight with Another Person
1. Each of you shall grab the back legs of the fighting dogs, and then pick them up like wheelbarrow. With the dogs’ legs up, they are pulled apart and kept from each other.
2. Do this by circling behind one pooch, grabbing his back legs, and then raising them up into the air. Without the use of his back legs, the dog will be forced to stand on his front legs and will not be able to continue fighting.
3. Separate the dogs as you back away slowly. Just hold their feet or legs continually as you carefully move in a smooth backward arc. That way, your pet won’t be able to reach around and bite you. Because the dog will only be using his front legs, he’d be kept from maneuvering with any agility.
4. The moment you have reached a safe distance, at least about 20 feet away, try holding the dog securely until he calms down. Turn him away so he doesn’t see the other dog, and try to change his state of mind using distraction.
Splitting up a Dog Fight While Alone
1. It’s extremely dangerous to pull two aggressive dogs apart when you’re all by yourself. However, if the situation asks for it, move forward carefully with the plan below.
2. Get a leash if you don’t have one with you. The dogs will surely continue on fighting as you look for a restraint, but you have to take the necessary steps to guarantee your own safety.
3. Try approaching one of the dogs, especially the aggressor, if you can determine which dog this is, and the moment you’re close enough, loop the leash around the dog’s belly, just in front of his back legs. Try slipping the free end of the leash through its looped handle, and then pull it taut. Immediately back away, as you pull the dog, till you get to something you can fasten and secure the pooch to, perhaps a fence post or a telephone pole.
4. After this, move towards the second pooch from behind, grab him by the hind legs, and then pull him away using the same method above. Drag the dog using the wheelbarrow method at least 20 feet away from his opponent, and find a way to restrain him until help arrives.
Remember that breaking up a dog fight is very, very dangerous, can easily result in a bite, and should only be done using the method above. Before reaching into a dog fight, always try other things first, like distracting the dogs or making a loud, sharp noise to get their attention. Do not panic or scream, as this could simply agitate the fighting dogs further.
To see an excellent video of these methods being performed, click here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7xrLXQNG0I
Elizabeth W
Jul 11, 2016 at 8:56 pm
Okay, My daughter told me about something, and it’s kind of gross but it has worked twice in the last month, once for me and once for her. Grab the primary aggressor so he can’t move forward, however you have to, and stick your finger up his butt. Yeah, I laughed too when she told me about this, but about a week later I was babysitting her 60 pound pitt rescue and he was doing his best to kill another dog we’re fostering. I scooped him up, but he had the other dog by the face and wouldn’t let go. So I gritted my teeth and did it. He immediately dropped the other dog and thankfully no serious damage was done, at least to the dogs. I might be scarred for life.
Elizabeth W
Apr 28, 2016 at 6:18 pm
I was keeping my son’s two dogs while he was out of town, a 38 lb female that looks like a combination between a lab, a pit, and a chihuahua, and an old female German shepherd who, when with a previous owner, broke off most of her front teeth trying to get out of her kennel. I don’t know why the fight started; I had just gotten home and the dogs were excited, but there was nothing really unusual going on.
The smaller one was the aggressor and though the old dog fought back, she was at a severe disadvantage because of her teeth and was getting pretty torn up. After fruitlessly trying to pull them apart, I finally grabbed a huge, really thick dog bed, straddled the gsd, and started trying to force it between them. The smaller one had the bigger one by the jowl, blood going everywhere, and when she let go and lunged to get a better grip I was able to get it between them and covered the gsd’s head and most of her body, kneeling on the sides of the dog bed to keep her pinned. With both hands freed, I was able get the smaller dog’s attention and the fight was over. I think what helped a lot is that she could no longer see the gsd. No serious injuries, but now the dogs seem to HATE each other and I don’t see how they’ll be able to live together anymore. Can dogs involved in that sort of a situation ever live in harmony again?
Patricia Nelson
Apr 20, 2016 at 6:31 pm
While I worked at a guard dog training kennels ,we used the back leg technique to separate dogs fighting. A year or so before I learned that method, I got bit by my own dog and have two permanent holes in my thigh from trying to separate two dogs from fighting by their collars.
Raman
Mar 21, 2016 at 12:23 am
just throw buckets of water on them.. vbest solution
JoeM
Mar 19, 2016 at 3:28 am
well thanks for the advise but i dont really know which one is effective, couple of day ago i tried separating my 2 dogs in a fight and dont know what to do, 1. shouting at them isnt right, they wont listen to your shouts and will contune to bite each other. what i did coz i was also scared they will bite me, i grabbed a monoblock chair and stuck in between the two dogs using the feet of the chair to separate their bodies and push the chair out taking one dog and pinned her to the ground or wall then hugged her..This only works coz theyre both my dogs, and the other stopped when my body was already in between, but i dont really know what to do when its another dog and anyways you cant bring a monoblock chair all the time LOL.. i will see if that “wheelborrow” is effective when they get crazy again
Alan
Mar 9, 2016 at 7:40 am
carry a water pistol with you on walks with the dog, squirt the attacking dog in the eyes and nose, dogs cant stand water being sprayed in there eyes.
Will
Mar 8, 2016 at 5:06 am
What stupid advice! You should never ever attempt this at YOU WILL be in danger.
Dee
Apr 22, 2016 at 10:48 am
Easy to claim it’s ‘stupid advice’, and then not offer an explanation, or alternative solution.
kathleen
Mar 7, 2016 at 11:26 pm
I love the suggestions about a fire extinguishers (which also stops tigers from attacking which I learned from some friends in the circus.) And I have heard about turning a water hose on the mouths of dogs attacking each other. BUT, many times there is not a fire extinquisher or water hose immediatly available when an fight happens. I have six dogs. Most get along. A few don’t. When there is a sudden skirmish (which can be lethal since the dog most usuallly involved is a big Irish Wolfhound) it turns out that either grabbing her back legs or tail and pulling her backwards (while yelling like a crazy person), stops her. But I have pulled my dogs apart by their collars, never having been bitten, but I get to them quickly after the fight starts. Just saying pulling back on the tail is a good thing–keeps you out of the line of fire.
Martine Hubert
Mar 7, 2016 at 10:50 am
It always depends on the dynamic of the fight… My two dogs used to fight A LOT and the only way I’ve found to split them up was to put all my weight on the most “active” dog (it was always the same one that was “holding” the other one…) until he let go of his grasp… Let’s be clear here: my objective was NOT to hurt the dog but just to force him to let go…
Debra
Mar 2, 2016 at 1:52 pm
The wheelbarrow approach isn’t necessarily a good idea – be careful the dog you grab by the legs doesn’t turn on you – it happened to me once. Be prepared to drop the legs if he turns on you, and then to re-engage until you can get the fight broken up. I grabbed a lawnchair and shoved it between the two dogs in this instance.
Rick
Mar 2, 2016 at 11:44 am
When I was walking my American pit bull terrier the neighbors big Rottweiler jumped the fence and charged and attacked . This was the first time my 8 year old doggie was involved in any fight ever. So as the big Rottweiler got close I let slack in my dogs chain to defend us. I never saw Magnum move so fast he went low and came up under the Rottweiler’s muzzle and locked on the side of the Rottweiler’s head were the big dog could not bite him back. So dumb I put my hand in fast trying to pull my dog off the Rottweiler. The Rottweiler bite trough my finger O man it hurt so bad ever time my heart beat Ouch. So i pulled my comb out of my pocket and stuck it in the vary back of my dogs teeth and he released. My finger was killing me. Magnum seemed quite happy and proud of himself. I just let it go and paid my own medical bills. The Rottweiler was not even current on rabies vaccine. So never stick your hand into a dog fight. Just let them go for a minute. And if you need a lock bite to release do not pull apart as that and the fast rebite may cause more damage. Just shove something into the vary back of the dogs teeth from the side and turn and the lock bite will release with ease and fast.
WILLIAM FARO
Mar 2, 2016 at 6:23 am
Wish I saw this yesterday. The stitches come out next week sometime…
Melissa Hayes
Mar 2, 2016 at 12:10 am
Since my own dog was attacked, I carry the same pepper spray that mail carriers use: HALT!
kat glanville
Mar 1, 2016 at 4:54 pm
I found this to be a very interesting article and will remember the technique now that I have seen what you do. Thank you!
Akamai
Jan 5, 2016 at 4:26 pm
I left my gate to my yard open while I was planting tomatoes. My 70 lb labradoodle laying on the grass. A peaceful afternoon ended when a pit bull entered and attacked. It went for the neck. If my doodle didn’t have long fur he would be dead. I grabbed the pittie by the neck, dragged both dogs into the front yard, and thank heaven a neighbor helped pull the pittie off. It didn’t bite either of us, and acted like nothing had happened while I took the doodle inside.
$400 later and staples in the neck, my 11 y/o doodle and I were both traumatized by the experience. Reading about what to do has not helped much, but I will say that if that happened again I would not hesitate to take a baseball bat rather than risk injury to myself or my dog. I now have bats in the back yard and am ordering pepper spray.
The owner of the pittie? An elderly couple that adopted the dog from a Petco adoption event. So elderly that they had to drive the 200 feet from their house to ours to get their dog. Why do people adopt dogs they cannot handle? They don’t even have an enclosed yard and are in their eighties. I am so angry about this!
Jason
Jul 25, 2020 at 2:27 am
Odd story. A “labradoodle” doesn’t have long hair for starters, and regardless, hair doesn’t stop a dog from biting. If the other dog wanted to kill your dog it would have; hair length wouldn’t have stopped it. What are you going to do, swing a baseball bat and risk hitting your dog instead of the other one? Bad idea.
Candace Olson
Nov 28, 2015 at 8:07 pm
Air Horn helps. It penetrates and startles and then I use a fire extinguisher.
Melech Benavraham
Aug 22, 2015 at 3:08 pm
I have had this problem in the past – 15 years ago – now Having 2 medium/large mixed breeds, I have had to intervene 3 times – first time physically which was risky and dangerous! Second and third time used my nog /head – with my previously owned dogs poured/doused them with water or hosed them to divide them. Now I have a hand-held fire extinguisher – used twice with great success and minimum risk to all!! Saves on a lot of potential Vet bills, as a deterent and saves me from injury – I just spay as must as it takes.
Melech Benavraham
Aug 22, 2015 at 5:27 am
Have 2 medium/large mixed breeds. Have had to intervene 3 times – first time physically which was risky and dangerous! Second and third time used my nog /head – previously with other dogs poured water or hosed them to divide them. Now I have a hand-held fire extinguisher – used twice with great success and minimum risk to all!!
Melech Benavraham
Aug 22, 2015 at 4:41 am
Have 2 medium/large dogs, I have had 3 occasions to intervene in a fight. The first one was a physical, but risky separation . The second and third I learnt to either throw water over the dogs, or have a fire extinguisher on hand to spray on the dogs until the desired effect – separation occurs.
Stephanie Ann
Jun 10, 2015 at 9:29 am
Great article but this should be included:
The 180 degree turn.
Basically, when you have the dogs back legs in your hands wheelbarrow them into a half circle ( so they lose their balance. I saw this on a show may have been from Cesar Milan.
Unfortunately I’ve had to use this before… but it WORKS when separating large dogs.
If you have two larger dogs, have someone else lift up the other dogs back legs and do the same. Go anywhere you can to get the dogs separated! have the other person hold the back legs of the other dog until you are away.
You can buy this doggie mace on Amazon called “Halt” if you have a little dog I suggest you carry this around – JUST IN CASE.
3. Like you’d lift a wheelbarrow, lift your dog’s back end so that her back legs come off of the ground. Then move backwards, away from the other dog. As soon as you’re a few steps away, do a 180-degree turn, spinning your dog around so that she’s facing the opposite direction and can no longer see other dog.
Kerensa Baker
May 24, 2015 at 2:23 pm
The back legs thing is really dodgy. You are relying on the other person not being afraid, and if it is a big dog on a small dog, it is unlikely to have much effect since the larger dog can just grip the smaller dog completely and does not need 4 legs on the ground to do it. The best way is to avoid it altogether by alway muzzling a potentially damaging dog when taking it on long walks or walks where you want to un leash it, or their will be other un leashed dogs around.
As an owner of a large powerful dog, I can say from experience, it as ALWAYS the small dog that attacks, and it is ALWAYS the larger dog that gets blamed. So I muzzle my girl and if someone is stupid enough to let their little razor toothed monster get anywhere near me, I will give it a swift kick. No dog fight required.
Entia Shadwell
May 26, 2015 at 1:20 pm
I do not agree – our big Pit Bull X and Dachshund X viciously attacked our little JRT……without ANY provocation. For some reason or other the Dax X does not like the JRT and the Pit X will always team up with him against the smaller dog. I think it is more a case of personalities and backgrounds – all 6 our dogs are rescues – the Dax is not only the latest (and definitely the last) dog to be brought into the configuration, but comes from an extremely disadvantaged background, to say the least and we realise he’s still going to need a lot of rehab & also intend getting in a behavioral expert to help.
kasandra
Oct 23, 2015 at 9:04 pm
That’s a load of bull. It’s not always the small dogs. Now I had a beagle get attacked by a massive ridgebback. Guess who had the lock on the dogs neck. Yep. The ridgebback. Wouldn’t let my poor pup go.
So, sure maybe at times the small dogs insinuate the fight but not ALWAYS as you say.
Amy
May 19, 2015 at 2:00 am
From personal experience with my own dogs, specifically 4 pitbuls, they are always on a strong chain when out in our yard or on a leash…always. If two get into a fight, you need a break stick to get them to let go once they’ve grabbed onto each other which only takes a second. All the while two people pulling them apart by taunt leash or chain. Grabbing the back legs might work, but ours/pit mixes wont let go of each other or another dog. No amount of punching/kicking affects them. You need to always have break sticks available just in case. You stick it into their mouth from the side all the way back as far as possible behind their teeth and when they open their mouth, pull the leashes of both dogs and far apart. It takes two-three people from my own experience. I had 3 males, 1 female…too much competition between the males even though they were all spayed/neutered. There are breaksticks for sale online. They wont hurt the dog if done properly. Just thought I’d add this for any pittie or pit mix dog owners or other breeds owners that have the strength/aggressiveness as a pittie who may not be aware.
Gljonesaz
May 18, 2015 at 1:04 pm
I can personally attest to the effectiveness of this method. I have used it to break up a vicious fight between two females hell-bent on killing each other (one a 165 lb. mastiff).
greg
May 13, 2015 at 8:48 pm
good suggestions. a broken leg or dislocated hip from wheel-barrowing a dog is definitely far lesser an evil than ruptured eyeballs, torn carotids or bellies that could maim or kill a dog.
i usually keep a harness on my dogs even when they are wearing their collars. this has come in handy when my beagle got into a fight with a bigger dog. i just got behind him, grabbed his harness and lifted him straight up into the air spinning around so the other dog lost line of sight. the other dog was confused long enough for me to shut the door on him.
might not work in every situation but in this one it did and having the harness didnt put my arm or hand directly into the fray
James
May 12, 2015 at 11:31 am
What a load of rubbish! I cannot believe someone has been allowed to print this. The person that wrote this has clearly never tried to break up a fight between two male 8 stone German Shepherds, believe me grabbing their back legs or trying to loop a lead around their waste is the most ridiculous suggestion I have ever heard!!
In my experience there is a two step process, Shout your ass off in the loudest deepest possible voice you can muster, this doesn’t work try your boot, seems cruel but leaving powerful dogs to properly fight will cause far more damage than a swift appropriately forced boot. But to be honest if you cannot control your dog verbally then you shouldn’t have a big dog capable of doing damage, if you have a tiny dog, what are talking about just throw some water at it!!!
But for goodness sake DO NOT grab your dogs back legs, in fight mode the chance of you dislocating your dogs hips or breaking a leg are high, and unless you’re a cowboy, id avoid the idiotic lead suggestion!
Kyla
May 12, 2015 at 8:59 pm
James,
You are spot on. That was a load of crap! I’ve broken up numerous dog fights with the deep, sharp yell… never even had to get to the boot.
Nicki
May 13, 2015 at 6:37 am
I appreciated all the comments on this article. I think you have to know your dogs and assess the situation in seconds. On a walk, I recommend carrying a stun gun – just the noise is enough to send an attacking dog running away. I’ve been bitten trying to break up a dog fight between my own dogs. Three hand surgeries and a dead dog. This is serious stuff, and I wish I’d been wiser about my decisions.
Jackie Collins
Jun 14, 2015 at 12:37 pm
Nicki, I also carry a stun gun to the dog park. It stops a fight as soon as it starts and the good thing is it will stop the fight when the dogs are a long way away, no need to get close to fighting dogs. :-0
Carol
May 11, 2015 at 3:17 pm
These methods do not work!! I tried it three times on our pit/basset mix that fights with any other dog that comes near him. I Tried it again yesterday when he went after our cattle dog. I had both his hind legs over his head and kinking his tail and he still would not let go. He held her for over 45 min then finally I got a 2×4 and it him in the side of the face and he shook his head and let her go. I think I may have broken his tail but it did not faze him, even hitting him with the board, he just sat down and watched me take the injured dog into the house. When I came back out to check on him he was bouncing around wanting to play!!
megan
May 12, 2015 at 1:28 am
Try putting your fingers over the dogs nostrils. It’s very dangerous but it won’t be able to breath and it’ll let go.
Juli
May 12, 2015 at 10:59 am
Carol, if your dog is attacking other dogs it needs to be put in a fence when let outside or if it stays outside….so that other animals are out of harms way.
Benji
Jun 22, 2014 at 9:01 am
i just punch my dog (the aggressor) in the ribs…
all is well that ends well
None
May 8, 2015 at 2:04 pm
Poor dog. You need to read the PROPER way to do it!
Filip
May 9, 2015 at 4:22 pm
Seriously? This might be effective in the short run (or, more likely, not), but this is also a pretty effective way of reinforcing aggression in your dog and ensuring that more fights will happen in the future. Not a good solution.
Pam Loken
May 11, 2015 at 5:44 pm
Maybe….You shouldn’t have a dog….
karen
Nov 13, 2015 at 2:51 pm
You really shouldn’t have a dog!!!
Corrine
Jun 16, 2014 at 5:37 pm
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Jake
Jun 14, 2014 at 8:10 pm
As it turned out I posted this on Facebook yesterday and a friend with two pit bulls (or pit mixes) had their dogs get in a fight this morning. They had been in a fight last week and my friend was bitten pretty badly on the hand trying to break them up. This morning they used this wheelbarrow method and broke up the fight in seconds.
Becky
Jun 14, 2014 at 6:57 pm
Please make it clear that, when you pick up the back feet, the front feet should still be touching the ground.
Kate
Jun 30, 2014 at 6:17 am
It was really clear that the dogs front legs will be forced back to the ground, hence making them concentrate on staying upright and taking some of the focus off of the other dog.
Davena Neier
Jun 14, 2014 at 11:56 am
I cannot thank you enough for this tip I hadn’t heard before. I personally knew someone who lost the tip of their finger trying to break up a dog fight the wrong way. I truly hope I never need this information but I am so thankful for it if I do. I’m currently running the mantra “back legs” in my head so it will come to me quickly if such a terrible thing happens.
Jimmy
Jun 13, 2014 at 2:57 pm
I really believe some of you dog lovers are complete morons… if a person feels threatened by a dog then they should have some means of protection from the animal… remember the word ANIMAL.. because that’s just what a dog is, an animal! If I or one of my kids or wife were attacked by a dog you can bet i will use whatever means are necessary to dispose of the dog!!! A human life is far more important than some dog! For those of you putting down those who say “shoot at the ground” or “use a cattle prod” well i hope you are attacked and bitten by a vicious dog… maybe then you’ll see how much your stupidity is showing through your comments!!! Btw i do love animals.. all animals, but the second they turn on a human they should immediately be put down!!!!!!
Dave
Jun 13, 2014 at 4:35 pm
Dude it wouldn’t be my dogs you needed to worry about, you’d have far more to worry about with me taking your knee caps to wear as ear rings.
Ally
Jun 13, 2014 at 4:58 pm
Think you are the moron…. It’s about two dogs in a fight! The article doesn’t have anything to do with a dog attacking someone.
Drew
Jun 14, 2014 at 4:40 pm
Dave, I’m with you man.The least of his worries would be my dogs.
Nola
Jun 24, 2014 at 1:34 pm
In some states if a dog is agressive towards a person or another animal the person who owns the other animal has a right to shoot another persons dog. And in some places it is illegal to have a dog outside without a leash. Making laws like these may not seem right to others, but it cuts down on the possibilty of fights or attacks taking place.
Pam Loken
May 11, 2015 at 5:50 pm
I’m with Dave and Drew….sometimes there is someone a bit more scarier then a dog……
Jimmy, tread with caution
Vanessa Ohmy
Jun 13, 2014 at 10:07 pm
You realize that you are a species of ANIMAL… Humans are so egocentric.
Difference between us and them is that we can decide to be an ignorant idiot, where dogs are taught to be mean.
I’ve rehabilitated fighting dogs in to friendly dogs hundreds of times. People though, sometimes you can’t get the ignorant out of people.
Athos56
Jun 14, 2014 at 1:55 pm
Dogs don’t need to be taught to fight, it is part of pack behavior. The dog’s social interaction, from eating to mating is determined by status within the pack. A dog will fight another when they feel their status is threatened, to take the status of the dog above them. They will also defend against threats from outside the pack. In your home you are the pack leader, so if you have two or more dogs of the same gender you may have to break up a fight or two. I am dealing with a three year old border collie who turned aggressive towards a same aged ( litter mate) puppy we brought into our home six weeks after him. After a period of about two years of blissful cohabitation and play, he is again attacking his old nemesis and just recently picked a fight with an older dog. None of these dogs were taught to fight. They did so instinctively. They are not playing at all, and can get dangerous for everyone involved. I, my wife and daughter have scars on our hands to prove it.
Linda
Jun 16, 2014 at 2:33 am
Perhaps remember that most barking or “aggressive” dogs, do so out of fear or nervousness. I agree with the previous comment…this was about 2 dogs fighting not an attack on a person. Maybe we should take your advice with human behavior though. We have complex thought processes and ability to understand yet we hurt each other. Should every scuffle be approached with lethal force immediately?!
Luthor
Jul 9, 2014 at 11:42 pm
Jimmy, are you a dog owner? If you were and your dog was protecting your family while in a fight, would you put it down for doing so? You should really think about what you are writing before posting it bud!
PaytonB
Jul 13, 2014 at 7:12 am
Someone (Jimmy) forgets that Humans are ANIMALS too.
Moron.
Thomas
Mar 29, 2015 at 7:25 pm
Rest assured, if I or a loved one was attacked by a human, I would use whatever means required to eliminate the threat. And that includes my dog. You arrogant excuse of a human being… do you really think human life is more important then an animal. And why is that, because you have thumbs? Rest assured, I would not hesitate to shoot you, if you attacked my dog.
Deb
May 7, 2015 at 6:26 am
Dear Jimmy
1. Why the name calling?
2. If you’re not a dog lover, why are you reading this article?
3. The article is about breaking up two dogs fighting. It says nothing about an animal attacking you or your family.
4. You are angry. Get therapy!
Sincerely,
Deb Moron Dog Lover
Ps…you’re an ass wipe! Lol
Jennifer Gill
May 9, 2015 at 6:02 pm
Oh but that just isn’t true…all too often, what’s to blame behind an aggressive dog is an owner that should be put down
V3
May 10, 2015 at 6:29 am
What a typical arrogant human attitude! I think there’s only one moron here. Dogs have no concept of the ‘importance’ we place on ourselves as a species! That is purely our arrogant belief system. They have no concept of the ‘importance’ of a ‘human’!!!!!!!!! We are NOTHING but another animal to a dog. When they are in a pure primal state of mind when fighting and we try to intervene, they do not bite us ‘on purpose’ or think to themselves ‘OMG I’ve bitten a human’!!!!! I think the human race sometimes needs to be reminded that we are just animals too sharing this planet with other animals. And for your information two of the most important species on this planet from an ecological point of view are sharks and bees. Without either of these – especially bees, we will cease to exist and funnily enough these humans that are far more ‘important’ and supposedly intelligent are destroying both those species!!!!!!!
Rita
May 10, 2015 at 7:45 pm
Can you read? You’re the MORON… this article has nothing to do with animal attacks. You’re a disgrace. Maybe I should type slower so you can keep up….. G…O…. Away! People need a license to drive, have to register to vote… Maybe this country should require the same to have kids…. SMH Let’s hope your kids get some brains from your wife.
Johnny
May 12, 2015 at 11:25 am
I have had to break up a number of fights between dogs. Both my own and others that have come into my yard. Dogs are territorial. What doesn’t belong there to them they will try to remove. I have had also dogs come into the yard and they all played nicely and had a wonderful day. Usually it tends to lean towards menstrual cycles, domination of another, or flat out from playing to fighting due to a certain or non certain perceived aggressive act or over excitable noises made by the ” Parent ” of the dogs. I have used all kinds of methods I have read about and none are 100% guaranteed to work mostly due to each dog is different. One might take balance as a way to just hold tighter because it doesn’t want to fall and become the vulnerable one leaving it helpless against the other. Another might force it’s attention else where just by a command or a noise that it knows. Even a squeaky toy has been known to break up a fight. I know it’s hard but you have to remain calm and very assertive when breaking up a Dog fight. Whether alone or with help. Get the one away from the other and remove either one out of sight from the other when you can. This does not mean they won’t go at each other again when they have the chance. They will interact once again but you have to also make sure both know that those actions are not going to be tolerated by you. And if it doesn’t stop maybe the one dog needs a family that only wants a 1 dog home. Some dogs like children will not get along with other dogs of any age and need to be by themselves to receive all the attention. Like I said before Dogs are just just children mostly and are very different when it comes to fighting. Some listen and some don’t. Doesn’t mean they are ” Bad ” just means they have to be removed from the place they are at and placed some where they will be happier and more at peace with their environment. Breaking them up takes a lot of energy and calmness on our part but as ” Parents ” we need to understand that they need positive reinforcement to understand that it will not be tolerated.
s fleming
May 13, 2015 at 4:19 pm
Thank you for being a reasonable, rational human.
Brandy
Jun 11, 2014 at 10:54 am
I have seen enough dog fights in my lifetime to where I can never see one again and it would be too soon. My dogs have gotten into fights many times and often leaving one of my dogs in emergency care of a vet. We have tried everything to break up these fights, ranging from yelling, putting a chair in-between them, smacking them, my son even got in between them landing him in the ER. I wish I would’ve known about this trick sooner. A fight broke out in my bedroom and I was alone. I went and called for my neighbor to come help me. I remembered reading about pulling the back legs. This was no little fight. I had a 116 lb dog vs. a 65 lb dog that wasn’t taking no prisoners. My mind was running 50 mph and I remembered the grab the back legs. So we did and needless to say IT WORKED. It wasn’t easy pulling them apart but I can honestly say it worked for me. I wish I would’ve known this 6 fights ago. Good luck. It’s a horrible thing to watch and how helpless you feel when nothing you are doing works.
Deb
May 7, 2015 at 6:28 am
That sounds scary!!
Julia
Jun 11, 2014 at 9:11 am
I once took a large blanket and threw it over the dogs. It broke up the fight immediately.
margie
Jun 11, 2014 at 2:57 am
I had to break up dogs before, hosed them down with water, always had help. we never got bit..
saleem hatoum
Jun 14, 2014 at 1:03 am
I have two GSD M/F, sometime they have gotten into these skirmishes and I usually take the water hose and doze them as much as I can. It is to the point when I have to bath them they run away.
Benny Valenzuela
Apr 25, 2014 at 7:21 pm
THANK YOU for this post! I broke up almost a dozen dog fights this week, all by using the methods in this post. I taught all the dog parents at our dog park how to do it too. Safer world for doggies 🙂
Carla
Jan 10, 2015 at 11:42 pm
Well if you grab the dog by the back legs and they stop. What about the other dog that is still fighting. I have been alone when the fight has occurred I know I did wrong by getting between them but I do need help to stop them alone. I have a husky and recently saved a beagle. Very sweet dogs but both female and seem to startle each other. The beagle won’t stop. The last fight left her with stitches The beagle feels the huskys dominance so then growls at her and of course the husky growls back then they fight. It happens so fast
Carla
Jan 12, 2015 at 9:29 pm
Help please
MJKenney
Mar 1, 2014 at 9:08 pm
(I really shouldn’t comment – every other comment I read has a valid point.)
The bottom line is this: you do whatever is necessary to stop a fight from starting. If a fight has started, ONLY the top dog walks away. The loser submits and lays down or dies defending their personal morals. Alpha walks away with no malice or contempt. If pain is required, pain is delivered with a measured hand.
Quit thinking human and start listening to your inner canine!
jon w
Feb 25, 2014 at 12:54 am
My friend was shocked by a cattle prod he’s just fine. Problem here is there is a lot of info left out. Most cattle prods are not even as strong as most tazer you can purchase at a local gun shop so everyone just chill. Also as long as what she is doing with hybrid breeding is not illegal where she is doing it stay out of her business. Also she stated that she is only using the cattle prod in a fight situation not just for fun and abuse, and as for proding there mouth again this goes back to the fact they are not very strong and two violently involved dog may not notice a little tap on the ass. As for the fighting situation between two dogs, well all situations are different so do what is safe for you first, dogs can be replaced. Here’s a short list of thing that can be used or done in a emergency situation when people are panicking and thing start to move in slow motion.(this should get some people fired up) walk away, ignore it, 2×4, bullet, water, tazer, cattle prod, run them over with a car, throw some money down on it Vick, cast iron pipe, crossbow, Look what I’m just saying is we don’t even know if she said that truthfully or just to get people mad hell she may even be a he!
MJKenney
Mar 1, 2014 at 9:13 pm
Sorry, my friend – I didn’t see your post before I wrote my own. (What he ^ said)
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 6:45 pm
This method is highly flawed!!!! DO NOT USE!!!! I don’t know who this woman is that wrote this article or the Jackass WHANA BE trainer in the video. Both are opening themselves up to a lawsuit and rightfully so!! They should be held responsible, should anyone try this and get hurt!!! Or should the use of this very flawed ill advised method cause harm to the dog that will likely require surgery on top of any injuries from the fight.
It is highly FLAWED AND IS VERY VERY DANGEROUS!!!
First off any reputable trainer worth their weight in dirt will tell you do not attempt this!!! YOU ARE PUTTING YOUR SELF IN EXTREME HARMS WAY.
Second, YOU have to bend over to do this and this will do several things. 1)cause you to be in an aggressive posture to the dog 2) you will likely be more off balance, especially for someone that is over weight.3 Place your face into very close proximity to both of the dogs. Long before you can grab the hind legs the dog can turn and cause extreme harm. AND….
Third, In an actual fight the animals are so keyed up and moving and trashing about with the adrenalin running much like with humans, that they do not always feel the pain from the injuries being inflicted at that moment. Even if they do they are still in the fight flight mode. To grab the hind legs as an animal that is jerking and thrashing around trying to defend its self can and often does cause not only minor soft tissue injuries but also causes torn muscles. Even worse, if the legs are garbed below the stifle/knee joint at the femur or below the hock/ankle joint or at the metatarsal/foot a torn and or ruptured PCL of the Knee of the Dog is likely to occur along with possible injuries to the hips and or the ligament of the hock/ankle joint. This will eventually cause arthritis and eventually lameness in the dog over time with out surgical intervention. To grab at the hips or around the rump does not give the person enough space to prevent them from being in serious harms way. AGAIN PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE THIS METHOD!!! Even the video shows the flaw!! Now speed up the video and escalate the situation and rethink the inevitable out come!!! These people have no business trying to teach people about dog!!!!
The best I have seen to use is a CO2 extinguisher in short blasts to the rear od the dogs. Never in the face. AND THIS IS A CO2 extinguisher NOT DRY CHEMICAL!!!!. An aerosol Fog horn also works well many times to draw their attention of one another and toward the owner. This method works so that you do not have to even touch the dogs until they are in a calmer state, WHICH IS MUCH SAFER!!!!. What is important is to work smart not hard!! This means to be prepared and have these tools with you when ever you are working with, training or out in a place where a fight can happen, which is just about anywhere if you own tow or more animals or if you allow your dog to socialize with other dogs. Also a bite sticks are very useful as well. The key is to know that all bites can be avoided, fights will always be a factor and a risk but can be greatly reduces by learning to read accurately the body and verbal language of a dogs. There is no such thing as the dog gave no warning!!! It is always a lack of reading and understanding the language!!! AND to always be prepared for the occasional altercation.
Lissie
Jun 10, 2014 at 10:41 am
Yeah…we all carry Co2 extinguisher with us when we take out dogs for walks. Really?
tara
Jun 10, 2014 at 12:30 pm
you don’t lissie??!!
who is this rob r. that he knows better??!!
i would rather pay for an acl repair than bury my beloved pet….or anyone else’s…..
Ilesha
Jun 10, 2014 at 5:33 pm
You can buy them really cheap and fit it right in your pocket. Better safe than sorry.
Candy
Jun 10, 2014 at 5:29 pm
The advice in this article is bad. This poster is correct – to do what is suggested is dangerous for you and the dog. Use anything at hand to separate them – a broom, a chair, yard implements….trying to grab hind legs of thrashing dogs is just going to cause the dog to whip around and bite you. And to attempt to put a leash around one is pure stupidity. Use whatever is at hand to separate them, then keep them apart with it until you can herd one dog inside our out a gate or through a door. Lots of experience here…I have broken up 5-dog fights (100lb dogs) with 2 people and 3-dog fights by myself. It’s dangerous and to follow this article’s advice is MORE dangerous!
Gin E.
May 14, 2015 at 10:30 am
Last week I was visiting my family out of state, where also lives the grandmother, (of Leah my 18 month old Mountain Cur hybrid) Caleigh a full blood Mountain Cur. Embracing the chance for the two to play and bond and after week of tolerated play by grandmom and treeing squirrels every afternoon, suddenly, but not out of nowhere the two tied up. It sounded horrendous. I ran and
almost instinctively grabbed Caleigh, not my Leah by the collar, knowing Cal was the aggressor, and pulled them apart. Leah at first was still in attack/defense mode as I placed myself in between them and walked/drug grandmom away. After surveying each dog and noticing a few bites on each I go in the house into the bathroom for cotton balls and alcohol, when I emerge into the living room both dogs where kissing and grooming each other as if apologizing. I was speechless.
Ilesha
Jun 10, 2014 at 5:31 pm
I agree with you 100%. I have three dogs that occasionally get into fights with each other. This technique puts your face right down low into the dogs and there is more of a chance of getting bit. Also, YES it is almost impossible to get around the dogs and into the proper position.
I also have what is called ‘Pet Corrector’ which shoots a blast of air that almost sounds like a loud hissing snake. It is cheap enough and you can get it in sizes small enough to keep in your pocket.
Briana
Feb 22, 2014 at 2:53 pm
I’ve had hybrids now and in the past. I rescue them because of people like you Tasha. You are now being investigated for animal cruelty and hopefully you will feel the shock that these dogs you have had. You are ignorant and cruel, and if you have children you should be charged with child abuse as well for they are subjected to cruel and psychologically damaging behavior. Wolf hybrids are highly intelligent and loving animals. You do not deserve their love. My wolf hybrid is an emotional therapy dog for me after my accident. So…you people who say wolf hybrids should not be owned are wrong. Its how you raise them. Don’t be ignorant like Tasha.
Callmewhatyouwill
Feb 21, 2014 at 4:26 pm
If all of you are that adamant about how others treat their animals, then stop being an internet “activist” (notice the quotations, for if you can’t tell, I am being sarcastic about the usage of the word activist.) and do something about it. Half the message boards, whether for facebook or youtube or even this site right here, all I see is people complaining about how others treat their animals. Are you going to do something about it? Or are you gonna sit there, complain and then not do anything? I think the latter, in my opinion.
Shirley Girl
Feb 21, 2014 at 3:55 pm
Throw water on them. I was raised with Dobermans and when they would fight we would throw water on them, this would get them to stop fighting right away. Pulls the mind from what is going on, allowing the fight to be broken up. Always worked and on human had to put themselves into a dangerous situation trying to break up the fight.
tara
Jun 10, 2014 at 12:31 pm
and does one always have water in their back pocket??!!
Tan
Jun 10, 2014 at 9:12 pm
If you are walking dogs you should always have water with you Tara, you know to hydrate them.
Carla
Feb 21, 2014 at 1:26 pm
I broke up a fight once between a big German Shep and my own dog. Had to grab the GS’s balls and twist them – it was just enough that he let go of my dog. I wouldn’t recommend this to do each time but AT the time for me – it worked.
Olov
Feb 25, 2015 at 6:22 pm
I came here because this method was just now used on my dog, a male Bull Terrier who was attacked by a dog which had escaped from it’s yard. Mine had a hold very tight around the muzzle of the other dog, his release command wasn’t working (was attack trained a couple years ago) when another guy came running up from behind and nonchalantly grabbed his junk, hard. My dog let go straight away!
Olov
Feb 25, 2015 at 6:25 pm
Also I should have been clear that my boy is neutered so the guy grabbed and twisted the Johnson.
Tracy
Feb 21, 2014 at 10:41 am
The cattle prod in the mouth is a bit extreme. I have a tazer that I only put 1 battery in…it takes 2 9v and I first make.it.zap to see if I get a release then I taze the aggressor if the fight doesnt stop. I think the tazer would cause far less damage than 2 100 plus lb dogs ripping each other apart. Would you rather taze or have to euthanize one or both of the dogs due to.damages beyond repair. Ill choose a tazer. If you have ever used an electric fence, and e collar or a sport dog e collar…you are doing the exact same thing.
I saw a dog fight where one dog punctured the other dogs eye with a canine and flapped down the whole side of.the dogs face. Another fight I personally know of: a friend had 2 mastiffs fighting…she.almost lost a hand…(major surgeries)…and had to.leave the house for help….while the dogs continued. Had she had a tazer, the less dominant dog would still be alive today.
So get off your soap boxes and if you have never seen too large or giant breeds fight…u have no clue the damage that can be done in seconds. Save a life…save vet bills…use a tazer!
ahab
Feb 21, 2014 at 9:48 am
is this a joke?
article should be written with caveat, “if you have twenty minutes to break up a dog fight… go get a leash, maybe pour yourself some wine, put on some relaxing tunes… you know… get the dogs to chill a bit. they’ll totally be bros!”
Kitty
Jun 10, 2014 at 8:50 pm
LOL at ahab. That was funny.
Paige
Feb 21, 2014 at 8:53 am
And I mean speak, not harass.
Caitlin Paige
Feb 21, 2014 at 8:19 am
If anyone would like to directly speak to Ms. Benson, thats her Facebook page.
Caitlin Paige
Feb 21, 2014 at 8:22 am
facebook.com/natasjabenson
Katrina
Feb 21, 2014 at 8:02 am
The article was interesting but breaking up the fight alone would not work. I will try the hind legs if I have someone else around though. I too have wolf/husky hybrids and I could not dream of using a cattle prod on them. I also could not finish reading through the comments left about the article. I did read enough to post another idea that has worked for me, I put a blanket over one of them. I have a male and female from the same litter. The female is the alpha and the male is the omega but at times the male tests the waters. I also have a rescue shepherd/spaniel mix that is 9 years older than the pups. The pups got into a serious brawl and at 94 and 58 pounds the girl could have been ended quickly if her brother made that decision. I could not separate them because of the intensity of the moment so I grabbed a throw and put it over the boy, that did not work so I moved it and put it over the girl (the alpha), it stopped her enough that I could ground them both and then separate them until they cooled it. Then they had to apologize to each other and show submission to each other, it is my house not theirs. I keep an eye on them and have not had another bad fight but I also keep an empty soda can with about ten coins inside and it is taped up. Now if they get out of line I ask them if they want me to grab the can and they stop. All I do with the can is shake it and they stop whatever they are doing immediately and go lay down.
One last thought, I don’t like to get shocked, there is no way I am going to do that to one of my 4 legged family members. Didn’t do that to my children, will not do that to my animals.
dantethedog
Feb 21, 2014 at 8:01 am
my girlfriends daughter was attacked by a pit bull last week
Thank God she was standing right next to her
she reacted with instinct–she threw the hot cup of coffee
she was holding in her hands in the dogs face
she did not have time to circle around the dog and try and pull it off
that would have been a worse disaster than what happened.
Missycindy3
Feb 21, 2014 at 5:07 am
I’m just thankful that this article was written at all….shed some new light on the topic for me if ever put in the situation…..I’m ignoring all the crude comments….
Marcy
Feb 21, 2014 at 12:48 am
For those who think dogs came from extant species of wolves….
Dogs Not as Close Kin to Wolves as Thought
news.discovery.com/animals/pets/dogs-not-as-close-kin-to-wolves-as-thought-140116.htm
Vanessa Ohmy
Jun 13, 2014 at 10:22 pm
What they failed to mention is that Doug’s and wolves have a common ancestor and that Theo genotype is almost exactly alike.
Also, in breeding wolves for domestication, it takes only two generations of socialization and human interaction before they become more Dog like. This leads scientists to believe canines were a result of human interaction, and wolves continued along their own separate path. They are close enough though in their DNA to be the same species.
Just saying.
Glenda Chandler
Feb 21, 2014 at 12:37 am
If you have a water hose near by spraying them breaks them up.
Melinda Fernandez
Feb 21, 2014 at 12:32 am
I once stopped a dog figfht between my female siberian husky and my other dog. What I did was immediately grab the two hind legs of my mix dog and started to swirl her around not on the group but half mid air so she will not be able to bite me. My main reason for doing this is to make her feel dizzy and keep her away from my husky who was not that aggressive. It worked!
Melinda Fernandez
Feb 21, 2014 at 12:35 am
Sorry for the mispelling,, what I meant was “swirl her around not on the GROUND
Katy Bug
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:58 pm
Does pulling them by the back legs really work? I have been told that grabbing a fighting dog from behind is a bad idea. It might snap around and bite you if you surprise it. Does that only happen when you grab their butts or torso instead of their legs?
Also, I hear that air horns are wondrous things when it comes to breaking up dog fights.
Tammy Cowan
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:50 pm
I have rescued many many dogs over the years and I foster as well. Big breeds and small. What works for me is spraying perfume in their nose area when they start to fight. Not in their eyes. It makes them sneeze then gives me time to separate them. Works every time.
But if u know ur dog, u can feel when these fights might happen. Only certain times will ur dogs feel anxious enough to take it to this level. Then keep them separated for a little while. Know ur dogs.
And to respond to those idiots comments made at the beginning of this post, yes I would die to protect an animal. Any day, any animal. That’s what animal advocates do.
Do not pull on their tails, it is a bone and u will break it. Do not harm the animal. Pls find a better method. Ask ur vet.
Sweet Marmot
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:31 pm
A really good way to break up a dog fight, or to get a dog to stop harrassing another animal, is to turn on a hose and spray the offending dog(s) with water. Amazingly, the dogs cool it immediately. You can turn the hose on with a hard water pressure and use your finger to turn it into a spray. That way you can spray them from a distance, increasing the safety to you.
Heather
Feb 20, 2014 at 8:06 pm
I have used a similar situation, it does increase the potential for bits because you are further forward. I grab just behind the ribs and turn away. The dogs generally get confused because that’s not what they are expecting. It does work best with two people, one for each dog. If at least one dog is small enough or you are strong enough, you can turn and lift getting extra distance. I have a puppy with hip dysplasia so I would be to likely to pause if I went for the legs.
jhouser
Feb 20, 2014 at 7:53 pm
I just use a fire hose. One hundred percent effective for two or more dog fights.
I’d rather take a cattle prod in the stomach than a taser!
tchambard
Feb 20, 2014 at 7:26 pm
WTF?! That’s crazy (wolves, cattle prod, gun)! We use a container with some coins to shake and the noise distracts them and it’s done. I wish cattle prod chick could be tracked down and charged with animal cruelty and stupidity!!
Jamie G
Feb 20, 2014 at 6:23 pm
I am going to voice my opinion. How I would break up a dog fight on my own is to grab a bucket of water, if that doesn’t work, you grab an object and make a loud noise. If that doesn’t work and I’m still on my own, wait for the aggressor to let go and grab it and hold it. That’s my opinion… I would rather be safe than sorry and get bit. Been there, done that got the scars.
Terrye Newkirk
Feb 20, 2014 at 6:13 pm
It always makes me shake my head when people get bent out of shape if an animal suffers even slight discomfort–yet they have no hesitation in savaging other human beings verbally. Disappointing.
tchambard
Feb 20, 2014 at 7:28 pm
Slight discomfort? Interesting choice of words. Guess we know how you feel about animal cruelty. You don’t.
ruth coldiron
Feb 20, 2014 at 6:08 pm
i have a german shep and st bernard/shep and they do not fight if they did and i yelled i am sure they KNOW MY VOICE and they would stop if some wolf came up and started fightin with either of them YES i would appreciate someone to break them any way possible not a cattle prod in the mouth butt yes but if u ARE REALLY THE ALPHA and these r UR DOGS u wouldnt need anything just the SOUND OF UR VOICE should be enough so guess this miss benson really is not an alpha and maybe shouldnt be raisin dogs/wolves if she cannot control them bein the alpha means UR DOGS LISTEN TO U AND UR COMMANDS PERIOD IS THAT A DUHHHHHHHHHHH
i train all my dogs with postive reinforcement and they r very upset when i raise my voice to them which is rarely THAT IS BEING AN ALPHA check out how dogs and who leader is they just correct and that is it
Vanessa Ohmy
Jun 13, 2014 at 10:23 pm
Yes!!!
Joan Vecsey
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:51 pm
As a survivor of the “Great 8 dog brawl of 2003” I appreciate this advice. Breaking a noisy dish or planter, using a forceful garden hose or bucket of water can help. Butmost of all I remember a doctor saying, “Don’t just do something stand there.” In other words, THINK.
A pit bull attack is easier than most dog fights. Don’t try to pry or pull dog who is latched on regardless of breed–all breeds have strong jaws. Get a stick and put it through side of gums. This will usually cause dog to let go and give you a chance to separate them. Another hint for this type of latching on is to stick your fingers COMPLETELY in dog’s nostrils. Dog will open mouth to breathe. Another person told me you can also take soda or any fizzy drink and pour into nostrils. This method I have not had to try.
Miriam Newman
Jun 10, 2014 at 2:37 pm
I’ve had two pit bull fights here, one of them nearly fatal. A cattle prod in the mouth is extreme, although I suppose seeing a dog literally ripped to pieces in front of you might make you try it. A bite stick is preferable. You can also use citronella or pepper spray in the face; I carry it at all times because these dogs give no warning when they are about to fight. I keep five gallon containers of water in strategic locations to dump over them. I have never gotten in between two fighting dogs, however. That’s just asking for it.
pat
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:46 pm
People shouldn’t be messing about breeding hybrid wolves…asking for trouble!
Joan Vecsey
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Agree
Nikki
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:38 am
Cattle prods are inhumane regardless of what animal it is used on but I agree, you do what you have to do to get the fight stopped. I have 4 dogs, only one male. My Pointer is the instigator, usually over toys or when she is excited she will bite my others, the only dog that ever responds to her is my American Bulldog. A squirt bottle will not stop my Pointer. She has attacked my bully 4 times, the first time her dewclaw ripped open my stomach when I broke them up, yep, reached in and grabbed collars to separate. Next time I had to reach in and my hand went right into my bullies mouth, not much damage. Next time she attacked her over a toy and grabbed them by collars and then hubby grabbed my Pointer and my hand hit her side and she bit me, because she thought she was still fighting. LAST time, she attacked my bully for zero reason and was in the other room. Hubby was alone and had to grab by collars, had to shove bully in her cage and Pointer wouldn’t let go so he had to keep closing the cage door on her head as she was latched onto the top of my bullies head, yes, he did it forcefully, she finally let go, he was also bit by her during this fight. So they are now on a crate and rotate basis, which really sucks but I cannot trust anyone else with them. My question is what do I use to break them up? not that this will EVER happen again because they are not allowed loose together anymore. I seriously don’t think a squirt bottle would stop her.
Cathy Hart
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:02 am
You can buy citranella spray at Petsmart for $10.
Kathy Merker
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:52 am
After wading through about half of the comments posted here, I just have a couple things to say. To the person with the 3 dogs, one of which is a chow and the instigator of most of the fights, you should have done some research on the breeds you chose before adding them to your family since Chow Chows are better left as the only pet in a family. As for the cattle prods, did any of you who said they don’t hurt, see the article where parts of Canada are banning both shock collars and prong collars? Why would they do that if it wasn’t a cruel form of training? I would think that a cattle prod packs a bit more of a punch then a shock collar would?
PuroScuro
Feb 20, 2014 at 12:56 pm
Kathy, I can think of a few situations where a shock collar is a very useful training aid — first and foremost being snake-proofing of a deaf dog living or visiting an area with poisonous snakes. My deaf dog has a large repertoire of hand signs, but if he’s looking at the snake he isn’t looking at me. A more common method of snake-proofing is allowing the dog to get bitten which is much more dangerous and painful. I live in a metropolitan area of more than 1 million people. We share the environment with various species of rattlesnakes, coral snakes, and numerous species of non-venomous snakes. I want my dogs to leave all snakes alone, and also not hunt or kill any of them.
Elaine
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:45 am
I always have an inexpensive plastic “squirt” bottle full of water handy with it set to “stream”. A few squirts in the face and any fights are at a complete stop! At least one of the dogs will hightail it out of the reach of the spray.
cathy
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:32 am
My neighbors dog attacked mine – and in the mist of the fight she was stupid enough to reach her arm into the dogs fighting to go for the collar and she got bit. She reported me to bylaw and said it was my dog that did it (even though her dog came in to attack mine) and I was fined $600.00 and a muzzle order placed on my dog. It didn’t matter the actual circumstances of what happened. All that mattered was she said it was my dog that caused her injury… not that her dog was off leash, her dog attacked and she was an idiot to try to grab the collar.
Jenna Seaton
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:15 am
1 of my dogs has badly deformed hips so I wouldn’t be confident using the wheelbarrow method. Would you recommend I use the leash method that you describe here instead? 🙂
Burkina Faso Boobs
Dec 4, 2013 at 7:07 am
You must learn to take responsibility for your self and learn to take
responsibility for your role played in all of your life dramas with
various characters. Though Romney had forgotten
about the unwelcome haircut, he apologized anyway after
the muckraking Washington Post, figurative sharpened hatchet in hand, rooted out the
story by contacting an old Mitt buddy almost half a century later.
The church wedding is wedding in the present of God.
Danielle Lorna
Oct 27, 2013 at 7:02 am
I own a very large Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a Mini Jack Russel they fight alot atleast twice a week the way i brake them up is to Shout in a DEEP Voice which startles them then i grab there collars and fling them to different sides of the room then pick them up and crate them till calm works everytime although i did get bit in the hand when they had no collars on as i tried to scruff them and ended up sticking my hand in the middle thankgod it was my jackrussel that bit me and not my staffy anyways other good techniques are a bottlke filled with stones and give it a good shake near the dogs although only works more on small breeds rather than staffys but i would never think of halming any of my babys with a cattle prob that is disgusting and inhumane my dogs listen to my tone of voice but then again ive never owned a hybrid wolf but like Cesar Milan says you just need to be trained to own one.
Morris Goodchild
Sep 21, 2013 at 11:26 pm
There are those among us who get a thrill out of reading responses such as what we see here… These kind of people enjoy observing the pain posts such as this create. The label for this kind of person is a Sadist… And this is what I see has taken place here. I suspect the original poster that claimed the use of a cattle prod, is sitting back having a good laugh at all those who are all worked up over this. Anyone can post anything they want on the web… One needs to attempt to determine the reason the author has for anything they write…
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:33 am
Whatever Morris… you seem to know it all
Sarah J
Sep 4, 2013 at 3:24 am
Ground white pepper!
It’s light and easy to carry in a bumbag, the use has no risk to owner or lasting damage to dogs. If my dog was being shredded I would sprinkle white pepper into the dog fight, I can’t imagine any dog hanging on if they have pepper up their nose. Grab dog and escape.
However this is after all the other attempts I listed in my previous post above have failed. I like the airhorn idea this is similar to my rape alarm idea.
Linda
Sep 3, 2013 at 2:40 pm
i used to have 2 female dogs that would break in to fights every now and then. i would throw water on, spray them with the hose, or one tome all i had near me was a glass of beer and threw that at them. – another timei dumped a basket of laundry on them lol – but they all worked. one time another dog attacked my dog while i was walking her on a leash – i had a small bottle of vinegar and water for just in case – i threw that at the other dog and the smell and liquid surprised him enough i was able to get my dog away.
Ana
Sep 2, 2013 at 3:50 pm
my friend’s ex-wife makes $69/hour on the internet. She has been without work for nine months but last month her pay was $21913 just working on the internet for a few hours. Continue Reading big29.com
Tracey Grace
Sep 1, 2013 at 8:07 pm
What a lot of diverse comments – experienced owners, novice owners, some with experience but also some with no experience of raising and training a dog.
I claim no expertise other than the fact that I have rescued Staffs and Staff x for the last thirty years.
As with children, a family dog, in my view, is only ever going to be as good as the person who raises it. If the kids are brats – then so are the dogs! It saddens me that inadequate parents are allowed to continue to reproduce and are also allowed to own potentially dangerous dogs (when they have no idea about either!
Many ‘needing’ people, with sad family memories and experiences are the most likely to procreate and most likely to take on a powerful dog in order to try and attain some status for themselves. Staffs in particular are often a dog of choice for this type of family situation, as these ‘needy’ people often have little if any self assurance or live in dreadful conditions, and the dog gives them some sense of self worth.
The sad thing is that Staff and Staff x dogs are most likely to be abused, through negligence and ignorance by the sadly inadequate people who own them … the bad name follows this beautiful breed, who strive to protect but are treated so cruelly by the sad people who own them.
Having rescued the Staff and Staff x breed for so many years, I have gotten to know them well. They are tenacious protectors of their family. They guard the family home, using loud barks and exhibit an inbuilt instinct to protect – but NOT to fight unless they absolutely have to.
Staffs are quite rightly known as the Nursemaids of the Dog world. They have an inbuilt instinct to guard. It is this instinct which the dog fighting fraternity have used / abused to suit their own ends. Powerful dogs – they will fight to the death to protect their family.
Sadly, sad, sick blokes with all manner of inadequacies, have latched on to this breeds tenacity in order to make money and make their own testicles appear slightly larger.
I will continue to rescue any staff or staff x for as long as I can, because I know just how wonderful these beautiful dogs are. I’d rather kiss a Staff than a Chiuachia!
Please support this amazingly human-centric breed … ll they want is our love xxx
Tracey Grace
Sep 1, 2013 at 8:30 pm
In addition to the above, in my experience, the calmer and more assertive the owner, then the calmer and happier the dog. As has been mentioned in several of the above posts, the dog becomes more feisty and aggressive in response to the owners fear of other dogs. My Staff x – Beebs – is the biggest Nellie I’ve ever had. When I step in and set the ‘demarcation’ level, we all walk away without injury.
ehor
Aug 30, 2013 at 1:13 pm
i understand your all upset but some of these comments are getting out of hand. my son has a 3/4 generation wolf and he is a very intelligent, loyal, attentive, gentle loving dog. he goes everywhere with my son who is 40. they are a team and love each other. this is they closest and most loved dog my son has ever had and when he dies my son will be broken hearted. instead of wasting your time arguing about who is right put your money were your mouth is and do something positive donate to a good group that wants to save the wolves. they are being shot everyday weather your in the USA or Canada. soon man will kill them all. so please use your anger and compassion were it is most needed!
I don’t agree with everything this lady did but i’m sure if she didn’t love her animals she would have just stood and watched them fight. bad choice but now that she has better knowledge i’m sure she will try new techniques.
please donate, or sign petitions for good animal causes, we can stop all this killing andcruelty to our pets and animals if we work positively. God bless you and your loving pets. we need to apply our love to making change in a loving positive way!
Kevin
Aug 29, 2013 at 7:32 pm
Luckily in my 15+ years of working at a boarding kennel I have only had to break up 1 major dog fight. An owner wanted 2 20-25lb mixed breed brothers together. While they were being fed the 2 of them went at it. I tried almost everything to get them off of each other yelling/dumping water on them banging a bowl on the ground. Id get them apart for a second and they would go at each others neck again. Not wanting them to harm each other further I finally just grabbed one of them (getting bit in the process). When I told the owner what had happened she says, (Oh it happened again). Had the woman told us this issue they would’ve never been kenneled together. She ended up having to rehome one of them since it happened several more times at home.
Paul davies
Aug 29, 2013 at 6:13 pm
What idiot came up with these two methods …obviously never seen two dogs having a scrap, playing wheelbarrow races,how by asking the dogs to stand still whilest you each grabed a pair of legs in syncro…try also putting a leash on a lively dog before you try putting on all the way down to its waist whilest its thrasing about in a fight….jeese…just grab the aggressor by the back of its neck and lift its head up when its not gripping the other dog is probaly safest and quickest method of resraint.
Sophia
Aug 28, 2013 at 12:30 am
everyone stop. When a dog fight happens you should do what you have to in order to protect yourself. I work at a Dog Kennel and am going to school for veterinary psychology. Lets start at ground zero, addressing the cattle prod. A dog fight is a scary thing, serious injury or death could be the result so doing what you have to is important;however, putting your animals in the situation where a dog fight has occurred before is wrong. It is the definition of insanity, doing the same thing and expecting different results.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, so lets start with an education on the DOMESTICATION of dogs.
Canis familiars was DOMESTICATED from wild dogs, wolves. 15,000 years ago about the time of the Neolithic revolution, when humans started living in settlements, it is thought the smaller more docile wolves would hang around the camps. Dogs were domesticated earlier then any other species, including corn. The domestication of dogs was probably an accident at first, early modern humans keeping them around as refuse collectors and alarms for when anyone was approaching the camp. DOMESTICATED dogs have been with humans since basically the dawn of time. in that 15,000 years we have taken a mutt with no real purpose except to eat garbage and be an alarm system and turned them into literally mans bff. The DOMESTICATED dog can read social ques from humans better then any other species, including: wolves, chimps, and wolf hybrids. The domesticated dog may still be able to breed with a wild dog, but why would anyone want to take away the characteristics, of which we hand picked over thousands of years, that makes a dog domesticated, of what makes them our best friend?
Addressing irresponsible owners, at the kennel we accept all breeds. Even pits, African boerboel, huskies, and yes wolf hybrids even though they are ILLEGAL in the state of Washington. It is not the dog, but the owner you see. We let pits play in daycare with the labs and goldens and let me tell you i have been bit way more times by labs and mini Aussies then any ‘dangerous’ breed. It is all about the owner, the ‘dangerous’ breeds do have a tendency to behave to the breed standard, that is what they have been bred to do for the last 15,000 is whatever we tell them to do. So it is up to the owners to instill discipline and set a line the dogs know not to cross.
Every dog is different with their own quirks and preferences. some dogs love the hose so spraying them wont work, others will stop the behavior that leads to a fight simply by saying their name loud. if you are putting your pet in a situation where you are expecting a fight and you happen to have a hose great, but what i have had to do before at work is pull the bigger away, just grab them by whatever you can and pull and sometimes the other dog will follow trying to keep biting so i have had to kick in the face the dog trying eat the dog who i was dragging away because they were trying to eat that dog that was now trying to eat them… i have found the most effective way to stop a fight is to prevent it, but if your pup does end up in a fight grab the larger one by whatever you can then get a hold on its collar or scruff and pull it away so you are walking with the dogs front paws off the ground and get it the hell away from the other dog.
Richard Ritchey
Mar 24, 2015 at 10:48 am
Thank you, the first reasonable comment on the page
Steve H.
Aug 27, 2013 at 3:55 pm
I’ve used a hose and it works fine. But the cattle prod sounds like a lot more fun.
Betsy
Aug 27, 2013 at 9:16 am
Wish I’d of read this article earlier – my 2 dogs were attacked while we were out walking by a crazy dog and I had a really hard time getting it all under control. He kept going after my 1 year old pit, but finally I let my 2 year old pit off leash and he was able to hold him down until I could get a leash on him and pull him away from my dogs. We found his owners and they said he was a rescue that was going to be attending classes for aggression. My dogs were not really fighting, but I couldn’t seem to get this guy away from them, he didn’t have a collar on. I think the back legs pull would have been great. I was proud of my dogs for being so well behaved and mild mannered, but I’ll feel better walking again now. Also, I liked the idea of taking a loud noise horn so that might break things up!
marilyn
Aug 26, 2013 at 7:47 pm
What always amazes me with these sorts of posts, is how quickly one stupid comment can de-rail the whole point of the original story. This is a good method of breaking up a dog fight.
Gentle Alpha
Aug 26, 2013 at 6:11 pm
I have had almost every type of dog from 5lbs to 150lbs, many mixed breeds, a few purebred, in the last 40 years. The methods they advise for breaking up a fight in the original article work extremely well. I would recommend to try a very loud yelling of ‘NO’ if you have an authorative, booming voice first as I’ve often found that shocked the dogs to stop and stare at me many times(years of choir lessons from an Opera singer helped me develop that though.) or if possible a good spray of water from a hose if one is nearby.
As far as using a Cattle Prod…the person should remember the settings for such a device is for something the size of a COW, not a dog or wolf hybrid. That makes it plain out and out abuse and harmful.
Wolf hybrids are still to close to the wild animal side to be domesticated to a regular house pet. Yes, all dogs have a connection to the wolves however to compare a wolf hybrid to most common dog breeds is like comparing today’s human to the ape, there’s a common DNA link but that’s about as far as it gets (except for the odd human throwback lol.)
A human can be a gentle but firm Alpha without using pain methods of training.
PLEASE, BE KIND TO YOUR PETS, SHOW THEM LOVE AND POSITIVE FEELINGS AND YOU WILL HAV A DOG THAT WILL DO JUST ABOUT ANYTHING TO PLEASE THEIR LEADERS. 🙂
Lesley
Aug 26, 2013 at 5:47 pm
The bottom line here is: education!
It doesn’t matter what breed or what size of dog you own. If you can’t take the time to educate yourself about your dog(s) then you haven’t earned the right to own them. Owning ANY animal means more than caring for it or “loving” it. You have to have RESPECT for the animal which means treating the animal with kindness and making decisions that are for the welfare of the animal. The moment you cause harm to an animal, you become part of a society that many of us would like to see eradicated.
Becky
Aug 26, 2013 at 5:09 am
Tasha, I can’t say I agree with the cattle prod idea although I’m sure it works or the fact that you raise wolf dogs or wolves or whatever it is you do. I think puppy mills are much much worse and more of a threat to the dignity life on this planet than someone trying to break up a dog fight. Fights are an event, puppy mills are a pattern.
So those of you with all your intelligent advice, well, I think as the higher being the human needs to assess the situation to know what to do. The water hose seems to be an effective favorite although where is one when you need it.
You other faceless haters who have threatened and bitched so cruelly to this person, I expect all of you to give a very healthy donation to the animal rights group of your choice. More sooner than later. Even a redneck can do that. Or even better go to your local shelter and bring a dog home and keep it forever. The internet gives you the cover you seem to need. I’ll bet a dollar to a doughnut that you haters would never have the cohunes to say these things to anyone’s face, one on one.
As far as aggression in certain breeds, well it truly depends on the individual dog and what it’s buttons are. I used to do landscaping and had to go into people’s backyards to work. Not usually a favorite thing for the owner’s dog to endure. Well there was this one dog that absolutely put the fear of God in me. I was terrified of her and broken hearted because I knew she didn’t like me. I would slowly open the gate, heart pounding in my ears, and carefully look around to see if she was around. Usually she wasn’t but one day she was and her owner was with her. Double whammy for me. Well that was the day she got me. Bit me in the back of my ankle. I vowed then and there that I would stay as far away from tiny little teacup Chihuahuas forever. I still have nightmares. Here’s your LOL!
Jam
Aug 25, 2013 at 11:16 pm
How is it so many people don’t see the hypocrisy in attacking violence with violence?!!
Jam
Aug 25, 2013 at 11:17 pm
(referring to the commentary)
Mitch
Aug 26, 2013 at 5:15 am
How many people realize that if you hesitate, and waste time running for a bucket of water, that an animal can be disfigured, or destroyed, in less than 15 seconds. It’s not violence against animals you idiot, it’s saving them and protecting them from themselves. Perhaps you’ve never seen a dog lose an eye, or get it’s ear ripped in half. I have, as well as an episode where a malamute’s face gets laid open like baloney. All three, took less than 2 seconds.
If such an event were to occur, it has to be stopped,
a. s. a. p.. If you don’t have the intestinal fortitude,
it’s gonna be either: A: painful for the animals involved, perhaps permanently, B. extreme loss or death of an animal.
If you have ANY indicators that such an event were to occur, could occur, or possible. You take measures in advance , and/or prepare with equipment to handle the situation. But make no mistake, an inability to react and control the situation will result in disfigurement, maiming, or handicap, for the life of the dog.
Mitch
Aug 25, 2013 at 10:17 pm
When breaking up a dogfight, you have seconds. A large angry dog with skills can slice and dice another dog like surgery. The quick method of separation, -not recommended-, is to grab the collars (hopefully have collars). It is at this point you WILL get bit. Chances are, one dog will bite you and most likely put a hole in your hand or arm. The dog jerked the hardest in the separation, hopefully off the ground, may stop fighting long enough for you to put him behind you and face the biting dog. This is a good time to back him up, 3 very fast strikes to the fleshiest part of whatever shoulder is closest will do the trick. If he’s bitten you, this is a natural reaction, just remember the fleshy shoulder muscle will be a better target. Generally, strikes performed with near max.force will make him stop, and back him up, without permanent damage. Immediately check the other dog, who will likely not advance into the strike zone you just blasted and be in observance of what just happened to the other dog. If he hasn’t bitten you yet, chances are, he won’t, and you may have a shot at controlling him. The biter will be wondering what just happened to his shoulder. Do whatever antics necessary to gain dominance of the situation, and manage it quickly, so you can get medical attention for yourself. To perform this action, you need to be tougher than than the dogs themselves, have no fear, and have exceptional reflexes and power. Emergency/NoChoice solo tactic for experienced dog handlers only.
Caroline
Aug 25, 2013 at 9:31 pm
I have had success in breaking up fights among my own dogs, as well as stoping an attack initiated by an unleashed dog on my 2 leashed dogs, with the use of an air horn. It may not work in all situations, but it doesn’t carry the same risk as bear spray (namely spraying yourself or the dog being attacked) and the risk of being bitten is really, really low. The noise startles the crap out of them and redirects their attention AWAY from the fight.
Gentle Alpha
Aug 26, 2013 at 6:21 pm
Excellent idea to have an air horn handy as well, especially if there is potential of having an agressive dog in the area you live/walk your pet!
Cheryl
Aug 25, 2013 at 8:52 pm
Thanks for this very useful article. It’s a shame the comments have gotten out of hand but hey, that’s what happens on a public forum.
Christine
Aug 25, 2013 at 8:14 pm
I am a dog walker & have had to break up fights. I have always grabbed “my” dog by the collar or tried to pick them up. These are great tips that I can incorporate into my routine when the inevitable happens.
Glad I stumbled upon this site.
Linda
Aug 25, 2013 at 8:11 pm
I’ve tried water it doesnt phase them one bit..my rotties are big babies…the cattle prog sound the high pitch is enough to stop them from arguing
ROTTIEs are the best dogs ever
Sheila
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:44 pm
I heard somewhere that if you are near a hose, turn it on the fighting dogs to stop them.
Shannon
Aug 25, 2013 at 12:59 pm
Thank you for this article! I have had a couple dog-aggressive dogs in my lifetime but have only had to break up a couple of fights and of course I didn’t do it the correct way and I did get bitten. Did I blame the dog? No!! I knew it was my fault, but I didn’t know any other way. As to all of you commenting on Tasha Benson’s post…I think she gets it, you don’t approve. Let’s drop that conversation and focus on the article at hand. I don’t defend what she’s doing either but how many times are you going to condemn her??? Drop it!!! And comment on the article!!
Kapi
Aug 25, 2013 at 9:29 am
I have 5 rottweilers who are big babies. I rescued a shepherd/pittie mix to foster. My rottweilers do not fight, not in the 7 years I’ve had them. This foster who is a now a teenager picks fights with my 3 legged rottie, and gets the worst of it every time before I can break it up. When this happens, I have to pry this dogs mouth open in order to free my rottie, who I might add will back away when I tell him. I’ve been bitten by the foster but not my rottie. A dog fight isnt the same every time. This little foster redlines in a heartbeat clamps on and shakes whats in his mouth, I. Now they are always seperated. He only does it with my tripod boy. Trying to figure this out.
Shannon
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:07 pm
That’s a good question!!! I’ll have to come back to check out the answer. Rotties do tend to have hip dysplasia so you don’t want to hurt them, but you have to be able to break up the fight. Maybe you could use part of the single method of getting the leash around the stomach? “loop the leash around the dog’s belly, just in front of his back legs. Try slipping the free end of the leash through its looped handle, and then pull it taut. Immediately back away, as you pull the dog, till you get to something you can fasten and secure the pooch to, perhaps a fence post or a telephone pole.”
Shannon
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Sorry this comment was for furrykidzmom…I hit the wrong reply.
furrykidzmom
Sep 8, 2013 at 3:37 pm
Thanks for responding, Shannon! I hope I never need to break up a fight but if I do, i would not want to maim an animal in the process, specially my sweet girl. I’ve been considering the cattle prod suggestion in one of the comments above. I don’t know if I could do the leash loop with success although I would try it if there is no other option.
furrykidzmom
Aug 25, 2013 at 8:43 am
Hi, there, I shared this very interesting article with all of my friends. However, I have a question. I have a Rottie that has hip dysplasia and arthritis in both her knees and ankles. Has anyone here ever tried this method of “wheel barrowing” on a dog with such physical conditions and what was the outcome? Thank you.
Maggy
Aug 25, 2013 at 2:32 am
You are right about WATER I have had to do this a few x , my 3 yr. old female Pit is the dominant of the 3 , They got along fine 4 a while , just like kids, they fight once in a while, but was 2 x in a short time period, hateful bitches, the last fight they got into was it 4 me , the second bucket of water didnt work this time until my husband came in the house had to kick em in the ass a few times , u do whatever u can and quick, its a hell of a scene , i fig. it was just going to keep happening , u could just tell the way they would look at one another , tired of being on pins n needles , i seperated the 2 , my daughter took her to her apt. alls well now with the 2 fem. Pits and 1 male Pit…KEEPING OUR FINGERS CROSSED , THAT THEY REMAIN FRIENDS !!, and a few buckets of water filled and ready , just in case …
Chris
Aug 24, 2013 at 11:49 pm
I use to own two big dogs, and I had to separate there food, and I had a gallon bucket cut in half for there water dish, and my German/ Mastiff mix would finish his food first and then my pit/rot would still be eating and they would fight and one day I was sick of it so I dump there water bucket on them and they stop fighting, then the next time they started fighting and I was afraid of being bite, I said softly to the mastiff ( buron stop,hey,stop) and I then said I’m going to dump this on you and he stop and looked me holding the water bucket and he lowered his head and walk away.
Pdaffron
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:59 pm
If possible I turn the water hose on dogs or cats fighting.
Linda
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:44 pm
when they are that mad at each other they WILL bite you I have 7 rottie I’ve been bit that hurts worse than the zap..ive touched it myself its that they dont expect that it works mt vet thinks its a good ideal
Linda
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:40 pm
you dont have to zap them in the mouth on the butt is good enough its like a 9 volt bsttery ..just enough to get the dogs to stop fighting… the high pitch sounds will break them up also.
I so agree with the cattle prog…I’ve been bit but only for 100 lb dogs nothing under that.
Vanessa Becker
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:28 pm
I was wondering if simply spraying them with a hose would work?
Lee
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:40 pm
WATER!
Penny
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:13 pm
If they are in the kitchen I grab the garbage can and get it between them. Works. In living room I grab a table chair. Works. I have 4 dogs so it depends on the situation as to which ones are in the fighting mode. 🙂 Hope this helps. I’m usually the only one around when this occurs.
Penny
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:20 pm
I have to “comment” on my “comment”. When 2 dogs are fighting you have very little time to get “buckets of water”, a leash or anything else that people are suggesting. These dogs would be going at it for much too long. I get the closest thing I can find and get it between them immediatley. I’ve never gotten bitten and the fight lasts for seconds instead of minutes or “many” seconds.
Adriana
Aug 24, 2013 at 8:34 pm
I don’t understand why everyone has gone away from the topic of dog fighting to insulting each other instead. I had to break up a dog fight at the animal shelter I work at, but unfortunately grabbing their back legs wasn’t enough because one of the dogs teeth had gone through the other one’s muzzle. It was really hard separating them, it took 8 of us and luckily no one got bitten. There will always be ignorant people in the world who use violence against animals, our jog is to educate these people and when we can’t remove animals from their homes.
Judi
Aug 23, 2013 at 6:17 am
I had to use a cattle prod to break up a fight before…..the neighbor down the road had 2 pits that attacked and were killing a young dog. The neighbor was squirting them with a water hose and screaming. THAT was helpful. I heard the screaming and decided I should go see. Well the only thing I had in the truck was a hot shot aka cattle prod. Due to the fact these were unknown dogs to me I grabbed it. At this point it was ugly and about to get worse. So I gave the first dog a small jolt. It ran off. The second dog, well she would not let go regardless. I finally had to give her a pretty good jolt before she would turn loose. Was is the ideal thing? No but it was better than seeing them tear another dog to shreds…..it could have been a child. Then what. Don’t be so judgmental. Also if you’ve ever been run over by a 1500# cow you’ll understand a cattle prod properly used is not cruel. Sorry but (gasp) we do raise beef cattle and we do eat them.
jbw
Aug 22, 2013 at 9:54 am
What do you guys think of spilling water (normal, cold-ish temperature, like one you would drink from tap) on two fighting dogs? It happened to me to be alone with two dogs who got into a fight and it worked well, at least 3 or 4 times in the past. Dogs who started the fight were all dogs who I knew well though, and who knew each other pretty good, for example my two dogs or two dogs I walk together. Has anyone else had experience with breaking up fights that way, and what do you think is the best way of acting in moments right after they stop fighting? My instinct was to yell and at the same time leash them and move away from each other. I know yelling is not supposed to be productive but it seemed to be working in all cases, I mean they seemed to be getting focused on me yelling “no, stay etc.” and didn’t start attacking each other again. It’s not like I can control myself and not do it either, cause I get very scared and upset around two dogs fighting and yelling screaming etc. are my natural reactions. I have to mention I’m not quite an alpha type of human but luckily all of the dogs I know are more or less submissive in their interaction with me. Normally I hardly ever yell around dogs so I’m hoping that’s why when I start they realize what they’re doing is wrong and should stop.
Also, if it was my dog fighting with a strange, generally people friendly, stray dog, do you think my way of dealing with it would be counter-productive?
Thanks in advance for all tips.
Robert Sands
Aug 22, 2013 at 9:53 am
I own a German/Belgian shepherd cross who unfortunately was abused and not socialised properly before I spotted him, and as a result he is very wary of strangers and is dog aggressive. he is much better than heusedtoo be,now the other dog has to set him off. he has been in a few fights with big dogs (while on a lead I must add) and I find the best way to separate them is to grab them by their Scruffs and push them down to the ground and hold till the other owner can drag their dog away, my dog knows that when I do this, then it’s over andits time to calm down. I have this with a Rottweiler and the owner thanked me for getting him under control instantly.
no doubt there will be someone who disagrees with my method, but it has saved vet bills and I have never been bitten
Vanessa Becker
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Sounds like good advice to me,thanks!
Jason
Aug 21, 2013 at 4:04 am
That’s why I carry a sharp knife I don’t care what kinda dog is coming after my pit who OS a complete sissy will get a warning kick then it’s getting cut
Vicky
Aug 21, 2013 at 3:38 am
I am an animal lover. I always had dogs. At the mmt I have 2 poodles, 1 black medium size; 1 white toy, quite small. The black one is so jealous of the small one. Yesterday, when my husband came home they both started barking ‘happily’ but suddenly the big one grabbed the small one from the side of her face. she was screaming and bloody.
To be honest I hated her at that mmt. Now I,ve separated them completely.
Should I get rid of her? She is showing me her teeth too much lately.
Jade
Aug 21, 2013 at 12:21 am
I normally give my dogs a quick spray with the garden hose if they’re still at it after I try to get them to stop. It effectively breaks them apart and they stand there blinking while I nag and get towels to dry them down. I’m a bad owner you could say. I don’t have the heart to discipline them at all, as right after I separate them, I give them food as a distraction and a way of calming them down.
ehor
Aug 30, 2013 at 1:56 pm
giving them food in my opinion was not a good idea. it was like a reward for their behaviour you might as well of given them a pat and said good dogs that was ok. all you can do is calm them down and leave them in their beds or crates for awhile but don’t pet, feed or give treats, they need to know this is unacceptable behaviour and you are in charge and they will stay in bed until they are totally calm and you give them permission to leave. you have to show them you are in charge not them. after you release them from their beds and they are ok together you can pet them and feed them. you are showing them that being calm and friendly is acceptable and good behaviour is rewarded and this makes you happy. never reward bad behaviour because they think what the did pleases you and they will fight again just to get more of your approval, good luck.
susan layton
Aug 20, 2013 at 8:09 pm
Very good to know.
David Jenn
Aug 20, 2013 at 6:11 pm
To the lady who thinks cross breeding wolves is cool, do you actually have a reason for it or are you just another dumb ass idiot who thinks you know a huge amount about animal but really dont have a clue. Why would you grab a dog by its tail? why would you shock it? I guess you and your husband must have some kind of suicide pact. The way you are behaving will lead to your deaths unless you are very lucky. I used to own Belgium Shepard’s which are one of the last breed of dogs to be domesticated from the Wolf in Europe and I would imagine have a very similar mentality as your crosses. So unstable extremely unreliable with children very dangerous with other male dogs. Have you thought of keep hamsters or something similar that you have possible the mental capacity to care for. lol
Sarah
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:37 pm
from my experience, what helps a lot is water. if you happen to be at home or someone else’s home when this happens, get a bucket, fill it will cold water and dump it on the dogs. often it is enough to stop the dogs from fighting. then you simply grab their collars or slip a leash over their heads and move them away, quickly.
avoiding the fight is the best situation though. be aware of how your dog and the other dog are reacting towards each other. provide both of them with escape routes when they don’t want to interact with each other. if it looks like it might be getting too intense for the dogs, remove them from the area. it is better to stop a fight before it begins than to attempt to stop it once it starts.
robin
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:32 pm
Did anyone actually comment on the article??? Sheesh! There is a whole lot of rants on here. Educated and uneducated points. Can anyone comment on if they’ve used this method by grabbing the dog’s back feet and pulling them apart? I suppose the best answer would be to ask your vet.
Oh wait, I see one person did! Thanks Deanna!
merc
Aug 20, 2013 at 3:42 pm
Hybrids well most of all our breed of dogs are these plus cats ferret all done by humans for a better breed etc etc and sorry for people to make money …i have had a pit bull who lived to the age of 22 he had problems but i was aware of these so no problem ,,, had a pyree god rest her soul such a gentle soul , spending time with your soul mates like your fr
iends you can understant each other so if problems come up you all deal with them like a family
leanne
Aug 20, 2013 at 3:17 pm
AMEN TO THAT
Becki
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:58 pm
What do you do if the dog has locked on to the other dog, will the wheelbarrow method still work?
Michaela
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:24 am
I have a hybrid grey wolf/ Siberian husky. And he is the kindest most gentle dog I’ve ever known. I guess that makes me a ignorant red neck then too!
ALL dogs are descendent of wolves. Know your facts people. With hybrids it’s a lot like bully breeds. It’s all in how they are raised! I wish you all could see and meet my wolf hybrid. I bet you’d all change your mind.
But a cattle prod I’d never use.
Oh and I have a pit. So I have a wolf and a pit around my three kids. And guess what! They are not aggressive! So take that and shove all your ignorant insults to hybrids and stick it where the sun don’t shine!
Sophia
Aug 28, 2013 at 12:46 am
Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. I have a pit, the nicest dog in the world! its all about the envrionment! im so happy you are a responsible pet owner i bet you even got them fixed!but there is a huge difference beween domestic dogs and wild dogs…
Your pit, Canis familiars was DOMESTICATED from wild dogs, wolves. 15,000 years ago about the time of the Neolithic revolution, when humans started living in settlements, it is thought the smaller more docile wolves would hang around the camps. Dogs were domesticated earlier then any other species, including corn. The domestication of dogs was probably an accident at first, early modern humans keeping them around as refuse collectors and alarms for when anyone was approaching the camp. DOMESTICATED dogs have been with humans since basically the dawn of time. in that 15,000 years we have taken a mutt with no real purpose except to eat garbage and be an alarm system and turned them into literally mans bff. The DOMESTICATED dog can read social ques from humans better then any other species, including: wolves, chimps, and wolf hybrids. The domesticated dog may still be able to breed with a wild dog, but why would anyone want to take away the characteristics, of which we hand picked over thousands of years, that makes a dog domesticated, of what makes them our best friend? Crossing a wolf with a dog can go good or bad, more or less trainable i guess im trying to say, and you got blessed with a trainable hybrid and your a responsible pet owner. But i just wanted to share a little bit about what im learning in school, an educated owner is a good owner.
Duke
Aug 20, 2013 at 12:15 am
All you people are so brash with your comments. Everyone seems to get so brave online. Hibred wolves are where huskies started, no one wants to hurt the animals but when their injuries will be worse than a jolt or scare then that’s humane. My dog got hit by a car I knew I couldn’t fix him but he was wailing, it took 3 hits with a rock to bring him to peace. A group of joggers proceeded to make me feel even worse about what I had to do. Anyone else wanna jump on the band wagon.
David Walker
Aug 19, 2013 at 8:12 pm
My wife is in a wheel chair. it is motorized.
She walks her little Pomeranian “Puff”. She also carries a stun rod.
She has had cause to use it to protect herself and dog.
Her pom was attacked by a large dog of indeterminate breed. The stun rod saved her dog (that is trained as a service dog for her)from the certain death of her beloved dog.
Would you deny her the use of this tool that allows her to enjoy the world as you with legs do?
When life or death is on the line What is better a little shock from a stun wand or cattle prod or death and misery for the loss of a beloved pet.
Stun or prod use what you can.
Tom
Aug 19, 2013 at 4:37 pm
Of and dan your another idiot hitting dogs what idiot you are another person who should not have a dog or any animal other ways to gain respect from a pet!
Tom
Aug 19, 2013 at 4:35 pm
How sick and totally stupid can you get cattle proud and if not a gun shooting into the ground complete idiotic response to stoping fighting you do not deserve any type of animal what’s so ever!!
Jimmy Page
Aug 19, 2013 at 3:53 pm
This may work for small Dogs, but NOT for large Dogs! By the time you did all that the Damage would be done! If you own a powerful Dog like a Pit Bull etc. You made that Decision! So you need to be fearless and jump in! Sure you will probably be bitten! If someone was attacking you, your Pit Bull would jump in and save you! I have had to do this more than a few times! I was bitten twice on the hand by my Pit Bull breaking up a fight with my Staffy. The top teeth crushed my hand Knuckle and the bottom Canine tooth sliced me to the bone. This happened in the first 8 seconds of the fight! I needed to do this immediately, to mitigate the Damage. I needed stitches, but I took care of it myself! When I`m walking one of my Dogs I carry an Ax Handle to separate them. Once a huge Mom bull dog(puppy`s)broke down a screen door and attacked my Russel. Had him in her mouth off the ground! My Staffy attacked the Bull Dog hard and it dropped my Russel. The owner paid for the vet bill on my Russel and his dog! Carry a stick to separate them! Loud horn works too.
mike
Aug 19, 2013 at 1:45 pm
Omg, wtf is wrong with everyone? Everyone knows the best way to separate male dogs is by pulling on their testicles. Repeatly
Melsie
Jun 10, 2014 at 12:28 pm
Responsible dog owners have male dogs without testicles to pull.
Heather
Aug 19, 2013 at 1:19 pm
I truly believe there are no bad dogs, only bad owners. My first do on my own was a rottweiller,,, at 8 weeks old I socialized her and had in her obedience at 12 weeks old,, she was the best dog I have ever owned in my life,,, she died 10 years ago of cancer, and I still miss her today.. 4 years after loosing her I thought I would adopt a dog at a shelter,,, I thought I was helping a dog in need,, I would never adopt a dog again,,, I found out after adopting him he was returned twice to the shelter,,, he has bad fear aggression issues from being abused,,, we love him but I cannot take him anywhere in fear that he will bite someone,,, so no one visits us because of him which i’m ok with ,,, this keeps him safe and others safe,,, we have tried different dog companies with no success,,, he is now 8 years old and as much as I hate him being secluded it will be this way until he grows old and passes.. I truly beleive he was molded into the dog he was cause he was abused as a puppy,,, he loves me and my husband and a few of our friends but that is about it,,,, our next dog if we choose to get another one will be a puppy that I can socialize myself and take to obedience,,, I do believe some dogs can be cured of bad behaviour or abuse but some it just is part of them and there is no curing them,,, just my humble opinion i’m sure not everyone will agree with me,,, but I miss my brandy girl so much and think rotties are great dogs if brought up right
Becky
Aug 26, 2013 at 10:00 pm
Heather I am sorry you ended up with a less than stable dog when you adopted and were somewhat misled by the shelter you got it from. Please don’t give up on adoption. It is heartbreaking how many great dogs are put in pens, never chosen and end up euthanized. I have four adopted dogs now and have adopted several before. I will never do it any other way. I, however did not go to the shelter to get them. I went through breed rescues. My dogs had been given up but went into foster homes and therefore had a closer relationship with the human in their lives. So any issues a dog may have is discovered and they are pretty up front about the dogs they want rehomed.
I commend you for adopting and especially accepting your responsibility in that. You stated that you are going to keep this dog for life. A lot of people would just give up and give them back or take them to a public shelter. The years your dog has had with you are years that it might never have had and I am sure are the best years the poor dog has or would have had.
Kudos to you and your sense of commitment.
Becky
Tori
Aug 18, 2013 at 4:06 pm
I was a kennel attendant at a very large dog daycare where we would have 75+ dogs together in one yard alone. We would get up to 118 dogs during the summer. The managers knowingly allowed aggressive dogs in (for greed of more money) and the staff was regularly attacked or hurt breaking up fights. Our number one tactic was to use a squirt bottle and/or hose if it was a serious fight. However, it was ineffective because once you shut the hose off the dogs would be right back at it. This is a very helpful post. Especially for those who regularly take their dogs to the dog park and don’t know how to handle an unexpected fight.
Heather
Aug 18, 2013 at 1:40 pm
What most people are failing to realize here is that it is not a matter of breed. Any “domesticated” animal can still attack because they still have natural instincts to protect themselves. What the heart of this matter is is the uneducated, naive and ignorant individuals in this world who have no idea what the hell they are talking about or doing when it comes to raising special breeds. One, a cattle prod is like using a mild taser, however, to put the taser in the animals mouth while wearing a metal conductor is animal cruelty. The reason for that is that with a wet mouth and an electric shock can create burns! Not to mention with enough of a shock in a specific area ( like a wet mouth with a metal conductor) can cause brain damage. Therefore the comment that created all of this was said by an ignorant individual who obviously is abusive to the animals that she was or is raising. If people can not understand that animals are just that ,animals, and will do what their instincts tell them, then they should not be raising or directly responsible for the care of another living creature. Not having that understanding and respect for an animals natural instincts is what is the problem with pet owners these days. Again do not blame the type of breed or type of animal, blame the more evolved animal (humans) that knows right from wrong and can distinguish from instinct and morality but typically CHOOSES not to.
Vonnie
Aug 18, 2013 at 3:38 am
I personally have broken up many a dog fight. Schipps love to fight however. I use a water gun and or bucket of water and pour it over their heads.. Doesn’t hurt them but they quit either from Shock of cold water Or to shake it off. It’s something I’ve found effective. I’m not afraid to intervene in a fight. I will try placing a stick or broom in their mouth so they can’t bite harder than the stick is big also Brave old me. I usually have people here when a fight breaks out and I’m not afraid to go in. Yes I’ve been bit but it’s cheaper to treat me than to treat the dog. I know It’s a risk but I’d rather it be me than the dogs. While someone is looking for a Leash or 2 in order to stop a fight I could be the difference between life or death for one or other of the animals. I won’t risk that. I also try using anything at my disposal that won’t harm but cause them to break it apart. Although leg thing sounds good to a point It’s not totally useful if you can’t find a leash within 15 seconds of a major fight because you will most likely have a dead or critically injured animal. Just saying.
Jackie
Aug 17, 2013 at 8:40 pm
Wish I would of had this information when both of my female dogs got into a fight on July 25, 2013. I got hurt trying to break them up by myself. Now I know how to handle the situation if it ever happens again.
Tiffany H
Aug 17, 2013 at 3:38 pm
Vinegar. I raise and rehab amstaffs, and have found that vinegar is safe cheap and effective. Keep it in a spray bottle on stream and spray them in the face. It tastes terrible and irritates their eyes (the same effect of cutting.an onion) if they cant focus on the target they wil back off. but is completely harmless. Just rinse the dogs gave after they are seperated and calm.
Stacy
Aug 17, 2013 at 3:34 pm
I am appalled by almost ALL the responses. Having owned everything from a Chinese Crested to Mastiffs, prevention is best. Best prevention? Spay and neuter unless the animal is pure bred, papered, and is involved in showing, field trials, or something meant to enrich the dog and the breed. Wolf hybrids…..having lived next to folks who bred them….just a wreck waiting to happen. Dog fights are a rarity in my pack. I am alpha, period.
Angela Besemer
Aug 17, 2013 at 2:39 pm
Wow! Great conversations. But let me clarify – hybrid refers to the sterile offspring of differing species, such as a “liger” (lion/tiger). Wolf/dog mixes are not hybrids as they can reproduce. Most people who have a wolf/dog mix will tell you that theirs is “mostly wolf” or “high-content” but in the same breath, will tell you how protective, well behaved, friendly they are. None of these are characteristic of a wolf or high content wolf/dog mix. Most people who have a wolf/dog are sadly mislead. This is how breeders sell these animals. My guess would be that 99% of the people who own a wolf/dog mix would not be able to actually handle a high content wolf mix. These are animals that require 24/7 supervision if you try to keep them as “pets”. They require someone who fully understands pack behavior and behavioral conditioning. They require God-like patience. They never accept “training” in the traditional sense. Yes, you can get them to perform when you use conditioning, but unlike a pet dog, they aren’t doing it because you’re the “master”. To be an “alpha” you have to leave all ego at the door. You simply make suggestions for the welfare of the pack, you’re not the final say, you’re a peace-keeper, and the breeding line. To correct a bad behavior as an “alpha” to a wolf, you’d have to be willing to snarl, snap, and salivate as well as grab a lip, muzzle, throat. You don’t roll the offender. The offender rolls for you in supplication. Most humans have silly, misleading ideas of what it means to be an “alpha”. The naive girl who started this maelstrom about wolf/dog mixes is one of the main reasons these poor animals are continually in need of shelters. Most of these animals are mixed with husky or malamute breeds which are not the easiest breeds to work with in the first place. The average person cannot successfully manage these breeds. These are high energy, highly destructive, very stubborn, very protective breeds. They require a lot of dedication, a lot of structured activities. If you use adversive corrections on these animals you will most likely create a fearful, fear aggressive animal. Add a wolf to this mix and you simply up the challenge.
Tara
Aug 17, 2013 at 12:00 pm
I was told by my mom, if it ever happens – god forbid, to kick my pup in the butt /privates and that will shock the dog into stop fighting. Of course I would try this first before resorting to that! I would hate to hurt my baby, but i would rather her be hurt from kicking her than dead or severely hurt from a fight. But as far as pit bulls go – very sweet dogs! Very loving and loyal with good temperaments. You do have to be aware of your dog and know their behaviors. Usually you can read how a dog is responding to a situation and react according. If your dog is uncomfortable with something, get them away! Never force your dog to be around something it doesn’t want to be! Like poking prodding screaming kids! Some dogs are fine with it, some aren’t, and some can only handle a little of it – always watch (And that goes for ALL dogs). And for wolf “hybrids” there’s no such thing. Hybrids is a term that refers to two different species and as dogs came from wolves, they are not different species. Look it up. 🙂 wolfdogs can be great! They just need more exercise about 2-3 miles of walking a day, more or less depending on your animal. But can also be great!
Mabel
Aug 17, 2013 at 11:04 am
I use a water bottle and aim for the eyes…if they can’t see they can’t fight and it works every single time.
john roane
Aug 17, 2013 at 9:02 am
How is it always those people who think they know best on what to do and how to do it for everyone else have little skill doing what they preach? You all should mind your own business and teach by example. Live the way you expect everyone else to live, if its the correct and best way others will pick it up and follow suite. Just a thought, my dogs don’t fight unless I let allow them.
Tweeked
Aug 17, 2013 at 5:07 am
I have chuwowa and great dane mixes, when they fight, I find the best meth… uh, method to brake them up is to fire a semi automatic rifle up into the air multi-pull times. (Or bang some pots and pans togeder.) One time one of the Grate Danes ate the Omega chiwawa becues I 4got to feed them, and just as the klan wasa cryin that we had done lost speckels the chuwowa, low and behold the alfuh Dane done pooped out speckles the chuaha. Ya see, the Dane didn’t even chew his meal, he just done swallowed the hole dog. How he survived inside the intestinal track is beyond me. U should never use a cattle prod to shock a aminal, I find a car battery with jumper cables is a moor affective meth… eh, methed.
With Love From Sandy Hook
Aug 17, 2013 at 1:59 am
I have seen so many people and websites promoting the safety of owning wolves and their hybrids. Heck, we have them here even though illegal but apparently apparent until someone who notices. Cattle prods on the other hand makes me feel they would be much better in the wild without their humans in captivity.
Timi Marleytimi
Aug 16, 2013 at 6:08 pm
What about Chihuahuas? My 5 lb alpha and 2 lb beta get into fights daily and I’ve been bitten everywhere trying to break them up but pulling a 2 lb dogs legs would probably break them!
K G
Aug 16, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Honestly those that think using any means necessary to save a dogs life, like a cattle prod, is bad, is, well dumb. Now if he was doing it for fun, that is a different story. These are dogs, not people, i bet you are one of those owners who lets there little ankle biters get away with yanking on the leash and barking till they throw-up. Dog need a leader and it is cruel to not give them one. Do i think there are better ways, sure. Have i not raised hybrid wolves, who can get up to 125 lbs, so i will give the person the benefit of the doubt that a dog fight with them needs to be broken up immediately.
So don’t bash unless you have been in that situation, and second get your ankle biters to shut up and quit pulling on the leash.
Jen
Aug 16, 2013 at 5:12 pm
I too have a Wolfdog, not a hybrid since wolves were reclassified as canines and now considered the same species as dogs. People who don’t have first hand experience with the breed don’t understand that they require intense socialization their entire life and miles of walking per day. They are smart and energetic, if they don’t have an outlet for that energy they will get in big trouble. They don’t act like dogs therefore they can’t be treated like dogs. But they are not wolves either, they will die if you put them out in the wild. They do not make good “pets” they do make amazing companion animals if you are willing to put in the work. But it is a commitment for life as they bond to you like you are their family and will often be put to sleep when you give up on them. My wolfdog, Maximus, is 120+ lbs. I also have an 85 lb. Pitt Bull mix from the shelter who will kill you with kisses and a Doberman who is a therapy dog. When the two puppies get to play fighting he calmly watches until it gets too rough or someone gets stepped on. He calmly walks up and smashes the aggressor to the ground with his paw and holds them there for a min. fight is over everyone kisses and makes up. He is three years old and a fully mature adult male and he has never so much as growled at someone. He loves people Especially kids and follows the commands of my friends 5 year old like they are the law. He lives indoors, in a subdivision, and yes he eats raw meat. He is terrified of my friend’s 4 lb. Pomeranian and rolls on his back in full submission when it comes near him. My all of my neighbors absolutely love him as do local law enforcement who call him their unofficial K9. He is a well balanced dog trained with positive reinforcement. He looks like he stepped off of a wildlife show, but he has the heart of a butterfly and almost human like emotions. Just wanted to chime in so the disease of misinformation the media puts out about “bad breeds” doesn’t infect too many people. I have three of these “bad breeds” living under one roof and they are the three most amazing happy souls you will meet. If you don’t promote racial profiling then please don’t judge a breed on the actions of a few.
Lee Mitchelson
Aug 16, 2013 at 1:46 pm
No one who truly loves the animals they have, lets them reproduce without grave concern for what their lives will be like and where they will end up. People who put ads in the paper and on craigslist for wolf-dog puppies for sale are in it for money not for love. Period. Check the statistics. Wolf-dogs suffer in this world, 9 times out of 10. Why cause more of that pain? How many rescuers have endured hardship to save those wolf-dogs you let be born and then sold for profit? You have no damn excuse that is good enough. Never say it is because you love Wolves or wolf-dogs. I have had four I saved. It was not easy to protect them their whole lives.
Jackie
Aug 16, 2013 at 1:02 pm
Wish I would had this information on July 25, 2013. Both of my female got into a fight and I was by myself well I got bitten on 1 leg, arm and right hand had to have stitches. I was taking an asthma attack when this happened. I did manage to get them apart but I now don’t trust either dog. I now know better and will follow your idea. This will never happen between them again.
Shannon
Aug 16, 2013 at 10:32 am
We always used water – a bucket of water, a garden hose, whatever was around. Cold water is especially effective. It seems to startle the dogs out of the fighting instinct long enough to restrain or redirect them.
jennifer stark
Aug 15, 2013 at 9:27 pm
this is halarious!!!
Karen Conway
Aug 15, 2013 at 7:36 pm
I was alone with my 2 Golden Retrievers in the basement of my home. My 1 yr. old suddenly lunged at my 8 yr. old to get at a piece of cat food that fell on the floor. I did exactly what you said! I reached for a collar. Mistake! I am 135lbs. I got twisted around & fell on the floor with them fighting above me. Bookshelf fell on us. I tried to separate them and reaching up I saw that I was bitten on my arm & bleeding. This was 5 min. at least that I couldn’t get up because they were pinning me down fighting. Horrific! Suddenly, I thought of something and yelled trying to be calm & happy “do you want a carrot?” They both loved them!! The younger dog stopped for a split second. I took that opportunity to pull him away from my beloved, docile Malibu. I dragged him upstairs and put him out. Malibu wasn’t hurt but I was bitten on my thighs and arms and bleeding badly. 4 hrs. later I was in ER because the bleeding wouldn’t stop. Drs. were shocked that it was 2 goldens. I suffered for years from this incident. Wish I knew what to do before this happened.
Diana Boles
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:31 pm
I’m sorry but I have to disagree with this advice. While I think it will probably work to pull the dog off, there is always the possibility (for the one person) that the aggressive dog (if it’s not yours) will continue to attack, and since you’ve just rendered your dog defenseless, it will be injured even more.
The best course of action is to stay out of the way, and render aid once the fight stops.
See the thing is that there is a survival instinct at work here, once a dog realizes it is losing, it will stop fighting. Dogs only fight to establish dominance. Once dominance is established, the fight stops.
Then, stop the bleeding by applying cayenne pepper (the greatest heat units HU that you have)to the wounds. The bleeding will stop immediately. Yes, immediately. If necessary, take the dog to the vet for stitches, but usually the fighting doesn’t render such damage. It’s best to know your dog and its behavior and avoid such situations.
Lee
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Yay Jessica! Thank you for speaking up. These sites are full of animal worshipers who think they can reason with a couple of fighting dogs. Ron white said it best; “You can’t fix stupid”.
The method listed above might work with a pair of vicious yorkies, but anything bigger is going to take someone who knows how to get the job done. Sometimes a water hose with a spray nozzle will work if you get them right up the nose. No one gets hurt and they kind of forget what they were doing for a minute. However, there are no absolutes and each animal is different. As for the “all knowing judgemental jelly brained idiots” who ripped into tasha, I hope your animals prove to you what idiots you are.
alyn
Aug 15, 2013 at 3:55 pm
as a bully owner i have been lucky, breaking up a fight with a pit bull is often as simple as grabing the back of the collar, sernly and loudly calling their name, they tend not to redirect their aggression. when my boston mix was still alive there were 3 incidents of fights that i ended up tossing my pit bull girl up over my shoulder to get her to the highest point possible from him, he continued jumping on me and biting, all 3 times he shredded my legs, stomach and back no matter what i tried to say or do. it is truly a case that you have to know the tendancies of your breed, and you have to know the specifics of your dog. if i had tried the backing up trick with my boston, i know he would have rolled over on his back and gone on attack mode for me.
poodlemommy
Aug 15, 2013 at 1:45 pm
Anydog can fight. My toy poodles fight over dominance. I just take a pillow to break them up. They are very capable of biting anyone. When we walk people want to pet them, I remind them my dogs are protecting me & are capable of biting anyone. So yes, we want to stop the fight but we have to do so safely (for the dogs & the humans). Water works, its the act of Surprise.
DG
Aug 15, 2013 at 11:16 am
I read through a few comments and saw someone mentioned terrier tenacity. It’s true, terriers get riled up and are almost impossible to distract when they get into a confrontation. I used to have several Bull Terriers (English kind, not Pit Bulls) and I had a couple of serious fights between them. The wheelbarrow trick doesn’t usually work because they lock on and will keep holding on even if you flip them on their back. One thing that does work IF you have it in close proximity, is a water hose. If it’s possible first tie them off in separate directions and then spray the aggressor in the face, especially the nose and even in the mouth, with water. He/she will have to let go to swallow and breathe and wlll let go. Hopefully you can then tighten the restraint enough to keep the aggressor from jumping back in. Dog fights, especially between bull and terrier breeds, are terrifying and seem to last forever. The main thing (and the HARDEST thing) is to try to keep calm and get help or some type of restraint before trying to separate them.
Tamara
Aug 15, 2013 at 10:50 am
Okay so you people are making a major deal about someone having wolf hybrids! Without the wolves we wouldn’t have such thing as mans best friend. Their is nothing wrong with owning a wolf mix. I always thought it’d be an honor owning a wolf mix. I do find it cruel using a cattle prod. But people should grow up. I’m 13 okay. I’ve broken 5 or 6 dog fights. With my own dogs. I just yell at one. My dogs are Labradors. They fight a lot with my paps german shepherd mix. I’m not stupid. I know what I’m doing. I’ve been with dogs all my life. My dog Katie a black lab HATES other dogs. Besides her pup. Okay so we had a male and we didn’t breed her. It was a acident. It was the best acident ever to me. I got a puppy! Yay. Sadly that yellow male lab ran off about two months ago and we think died. He was 13. People don’t comment about pit bulls and rotties. Those dogs are overestimated by the media. I think PitBulls are some of the best dogs. Same with rotties. I have always loved dogs. I think you people need to grow up about wolf hybrids! Bye.
Sophia
Aug 28, 2013 at 1:01 am
i really think people were not outraged about the breed of the dog, but by the behavior of the owner. If it had been labs or pitties or toy poodles people would be responding in the same way!
Anonymous Voices For The Breeds
Aug 15, 2013 at 6:52 am
Would like to point out that the Nanny Dog statement – Nanny dog was a term coined to describe dogs that were good natured with children. There were several “nanny” dogs in the history of man and canine relationships. Using this Term can and has caused damage to these dogs, especially because of irresponsible people going out and buying/adopting these dogs and using them as “babysitters”. Dogs are companion animals but they are not “babysitters” nor are they nanny dogs. It’s this term and or statement that has cost these dogs their lives. Continue to use this term/statement incorrectly it doesn’t make this any better for the situation our bully breeds are in. The truth of the matter is yes, they are loyal and have a calming effect toward any age or gender, but only if they have been trained and socialized correctly. Sorry to say most of us as advocates and activists will not stand behind the term/statement “Nanny Dog”.
Furthermore back on to this wolf hybrid issue.
Wolfdog is the correct term, since dogs already have the bloodline of a Wolf type. -.-) You actually see wolfdogs nearly everyday if you truly looked. Husky/timberwolf, eskimo/wolf It is quite more common than anyone can imagine.
However, they are not recommended for the less active dog guardian/owner. They need tons of exercise and activities to keep them occupied. And a very stable environment along with an Owner who is available to TRAIN them with a patient yet loving mind.
Jack
Aug 15, 2013 at 3:33 am
I feel the above advise to pull the dogs apart is well dangerous to say the least,let me explain as above the writer explains that Fido is in survival mode. True he /or she will barely recognize you and you will possibly get bit by your own dog. Never bend down and put your face within range of two fighting dogs that is well unenlightened to say it as nicely as I can! I have grown up with parents that owned and operated a very successful kennel till I was 13 and then my father started a dog grooming truck service he worked from 78 till just two years ago! He owned the kennel back in the late fifties,so with all of the time spent working side by side with my father as we took in boarders into the kennel. (many that didn’t want to be there and fought like heck with us and anything around them)I have learned just a bit about fighting dogs! A big bucket of water thrown in the dogs faces works best a garden hose second for breaking up a fight. but when out walking your dog and another off leash dog attacks (you should always be using a harness type of leash combination for this to work the best)you should be able to pull your dog back abruptly and then turn him away from the other dog keeping them apart,not to worry almost 99% of the time the attacking dog is mostly interested in your dog not you. You may suffer some nail scratches but that should be the most damage to you depending on your reaction time and your dog should be devoid of much harm also. This is so much better than getting down low enough to grab your dogs legs. Just think your dog and the other dog will be twisting and turning, to grab the legs of either dog will not be an easy task also now you are down on their level you just entered the fight arena not the best place to stick your face into with out teeth like theirs! At the very least you will probably get a paw with nails in your face by your own dog maybe so don’t do what they tell you above maybe as a last resort but beware you will be a part of the fight and I can almost guarantee you will not come out unharmed! To save your dogs life is when I would think of doing this ever. also I have what I affectionately call a Lab-A-Rot it is a Labrador,Rottweiler mix just under 100 lbs. So when he fights it isn’t a joke it’s for real. While I was walking him in my neighborhood a short time ago a Doberman Pinscher got loose and attached my dog while I was walking him it was so quick I hardly had a moment to think but my instinct took over and I pulled him back and then turned him away the attacking dog was frustrated and tried to run around after my dog totally ignoring that I was even there just as if i was a tree or something. Using your voice to deter the other dog and your own should also be used to distract and command attention and obedience. I kept him moving and then the other owner was able to get a hold of his dog, No real harm to either of them or either of us owners,test proved positive! As to the use of a cattle prod on the wolves is just cruelty to say the least. As far as breeding them I don’t think it is a bad thing anything that helps to help an endangered species is good but wolves never make good cell mates. You need acres of land to work with them properly. to use a cattle prod in the mouth of any animal should and most probably is an actionable offense in all 50 states! Butt holes! these prods are designed for large animals in the 2000 lb category not the 2-300lb category thus abuse! The first and every time one is used on them,unless the voltage can be dialed down they should not even be considered a usable instrument for their chose of animal husbandry.
Jack
Aug 15, 2013 at 2:47 am
I have read almost every one of these comments and the article above,now having been around dogs from birth (my parents owned and operated a very successful kennel till I was 13) then they were forced to sell it because of urban renewal. my father having the need to be around animals that had been his life’s work,decided to operate a dog grooming truck one of the first in the area this was back in the late seventies he has just stopped working on it two years ago.During this time of the kennel and the dog truck I have gained a lot of experience working side by side with my father off and on through-out my life. so I will count myself with over 40 years of experience in animal husbandry mostly pertaining to dogs and cats but have also been involved with horses,ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and even cattle. So I hope all who read this take into account my experience as almost gospel. No matter what the breed of dog or any animal as a matter of fact (I have seen viscous attacks made by farm animals also.) It mainly comes down to this they are animals they don’t have voices with words to reason out things like we can they have teeth, nails and hooves.That is how they make their point,of course the do bark, growl and bay usually meant as a warning but not always headed by man or animal alike so then the teeth, nails and hooves come to play for defense of land, food or body! any animal is capable in harming another and most certainly us. I don’t care if you hand feed it all of it’s life it there is something bothering that animal it will lash out at the closest thing (animal)around,for many reasons could be fear, could be hurting and we don’t know it. (How many times does cancer go undiagnosed in people and animals?)you just will never know every time a animal is about to (freak out)so to say. So with this in mind and love aside you must always respect what you are working with at all times! I have had many breeds of dogs in my life. I currently own a Lab-A-Rot I affectionately call him he is a cross breed of a Labrador and a Rottweiler he is a big baby a lover but is aggressive as hell with other dogs,he is very territorial and protective,he always barks and lunges when my wife and I walk him in our neighborhood. He is just shy of a hundred pounds,and he can knock me off center if it is unexpected I weigh in at over 300 lbs. but if they do get together they usually just want to play I can’t tell if he want to kill then or just play so I don’t take the chance I go with a no contact attitude. one day a Doberman pinscher from the neighborhood got out of it’s house as we were passing and attacked my dog as it was on the leash with me. A quick yank on the leash (I have a harness on him, no choker chain) pulled them apart i then turned him around and around my body keeping him and the other dog separate,the Dobbie wasn’t interested in me just my dog. The owner came and got his dog under control and the incident was over before it got to far no damage on either dog, This way worked better than any pulling of the hind legs. Just remember people like what was stated above your and the other dog fighting are in survival mode they will barely recognize their owners no matter how much they love you! Bending down and getting that close to your dog when two of them are twisting and turning in a fight is well in my mind rather stupid and you will 9 times out of 10 get hurt in some way doing this! just remember that i have been around dogs all my life and have never sustained any real harm to my body during a confrontation between two or more dogs when in the kennel we would use a big bucket of water and thrown at both dogs faces will also separate then right away also and guess what you don’t get bit,that is also a good idea! A garden hose will work quite well also! don’t get down face to face with any animal that is in a fight if you do you just entered the arena too and will quite possibly be attacked by both dogs as being a new contender in the fight so to speak. Ok having that said I would also like to address the comment about using a cattle prod on a dog,sorry I feel it is a form of abuse if used wrong with cattle on a dog you might as well be shooting at them with that gun you are speaking of shooting into the ground don’t forget one day you will hit a rock just under the dirt and you are going to have a bullet go right up your ass and as far as I am concerned that’s where it rightfully belongs! As far as raising Hybrid Wolves not a problem in my mind anything that helps to promote and protect a potentially endangered species is ok in my book,but if irresponsible people are in charge of them I feel for the wolves every time! The use of cattle prod’s in the mouth or body to a dog sized animal is cruelty to say the least and in any state’s laws should be an actionable offense! No one mentioned the the cattle prod emits a average of 5,500 kV of electric shock to the animal or human it is discharged into,not good for either man or beast if used irresponsibly like SAY IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF! I hope someday someone puts it into your mouth so you can see what it’s like. Michael Vick went to jail over abuse to the pit bulls he was involved with illegally fighting,you folks are on the same path so there for I hope you end the same as him,without the multimillion dollar contract awarded him because he can throw a football! (another disgrace but that is a whole other topic) Hope this helps all involved and also goes to teach the ignorant users of cattle prods on smaller animals than they were designed for!
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:28 am
When do you release your next book?
Liz
Aug 15, 2013 at 12:35 am
I learnt to first wrap you hands in shirt etc, and blindfold dog if possible….and never, never raise your voice
Lisa
Aug 14, 2013 at 6:51 pm
i have 2 questions about this method – what if you have rather large dogs and arent able to lift them off the back end and also (as with my dog) he has hip dysplasia and i wouldnt want to risk hurting him — would i be better off using the leash method ( a dog had charged my dog and attacked my dog last year – not knowing this i got in the middle and kept the other dog from attacking mine until his owner could get the dog back under control)
Sue
Aug 14, 2013 at 3:05 pm
One of my younger dogs attacked my older dog and nearly killed her. Ripped a huge flap in her neck skin. I was by myself and had a terrible time getting that dog off the other. The older did not even fight back, she was completely over-powered by the other dog, 80 lbs. versus old 50 lbs. If I had a cattle prod at my disposal I certainly would have used it. Fortunately the massive laceration on the old dog was able to be repaired and she is fine now. I can never allow the young one to ever be near her again. It was a very close call and to this day I don’t know how I did it, was sheer adenaline.
joyce heringer
Aug 14, 2013 at 10:49 am
i was a rottweiler breeder and i had borrowed a male to breed to one of my bitches one after noon i made the mistake of letting my 9 month old male go with me to feed ,water,and clean pins. i got to the dog that didn’t belong to me and when i open the dog pin door he charged out of the pin and att my dog and the fight was on well the other dog was much older and bigger than my 9 month old and i didn’t no what to do i tried to break the fight up and in the corner of my eye i saw a smoker and i went and grabbed it and as i was walking back one of the other dogs had dug a hole and not put a no fishing sign beside it and my right foot fell in and my left leg fail into the fight i yelled you got mommy three times and on the third time they let go by now they where getting tired and so i broke up the fight put the oldest dog back in pin and dragged my self back into my home telling my youngest daughter to grab me a towel and my oldest to call my dad tell him i had fallen into a dog fight as i left my back yard i could not help but notice the back yard was covered in blood my dad rushed to my home and took me straight to the hospital they rushed me into the emergency room where they told me i had to puncher wounds on the front of my left knee on each side and one long tear on the back of my leg right where that artery is and the dr keep saying how did that not hit that artery it just doesn’t make since it went right threw it , i was worried about my dog because of all the blood i just new one of them where really hurt and so i made my dad go home and check the dog did not have as much as a scratch on them as i know mow there skin is much tougher than ours and they make more noise than they do fight , but where did all the blood come from i ask and it came from me .i believe that ,that autry was not missed i believe it was puncherd and i believe that god suchered it in that back yard but i learn a big lesson that day never take a male dog in the back yard free of leash when you have a female in heat and that unless you have like four on one dog two dogs fighting are going to get tired and just stop and they are not fighting near as bad as they are really fighting i recovered i have scars but i did learn a very important lesson that day
Valorie Stockstill
Aug 14, 2013 at 2:28 am
Tasha, you say you had your husband use the cattle prod on you to test it? Have him shove it in your mouth, then test it. I bet you won’t use it again. Sheesh That is downright cruel. You should be ashamed. You should have your animals removed for such cruelty.
ronald
Aug 14, 2013 at 1:14 am
use flea and tick spray if they fight. or carry it with you if an agressive dog trys to attack you. one sniff and he’ll back away. or the best way to stop a dog fight never let your dog near another dog that way there wont be any dog fights. a dog who dont wag its tail is a wild one, one who does wont fight. fast wag now slow wag.
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 6:30 pm
If you “never let your dog near another dog,” they will not be socialized and when they do encounter another dog (which is sure to happen in one way or another over the course of a dog’s life), you will surely have a dog fight on your hands…regardless of the previous tail-wagging status.
Pam
Aug 13, 2013 at 11:29 pm
A free spirit I knew in High School and that one day showed up at my door when I lived in CA was killed by the pack of wolves she and her husband had caged on their land. Luckily she was able to shove her 2 sons to safety in the car as the attack started. It is wrong to try and tame wild beasts, regardless of how in tune one might think of themselves. Jane Goodall and others like her study wild animals in their natural habitat but this is not the same thing. If you provide food and shelter to a wild animal they do not grow to be attached to you it is just one less meal they need to fight for, that’s it, nothing more. They have a social structure amongst themselves but they do not grow attached to other species or have feelings of gratitude or love. When we try to interject those things into wild animals it is a dangerous form of abuse. So domesticated animals in fight mode can hopefully be handled this way it does not apply in any way to wolves or any wild animal.
Steve
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:42 pm
A fellow I met in NC raised wolves for educational diplay under NC Stae provisions, prior to the re-introduction of red wolves there. He insisted that they canNOT be made into “pets” as they do not respond to a reward training, nor to fear training. I trust that opinion. Another friend worked in a wolf rehab in Wyoming. He related the same information. Take it from the experts folks.
merc
Aug 20, 2013 at 3:50 pm
i agree
Deanna Johnston Clark
Aug 13, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Prevention is best..I’ve learned with 7 border collies these things:
They must know you are their authority and boss in all situations…no doggie doors. You decide everything.
Feed separately in quiet rooms, in braces (boy&girl).
No crowding through narrow passages or at gates.
All food and treats must be eaten completely. No burying!!!
Sit before being fed.
Avoid novelty situations and over excitement.
Avoid inviting jealousy. (important with human animals too!)
Exercise chasing balls, etc. under your control, twice a day. If anybody gets aggressive, frog march them into a room.
The wheelbarrow works great…an ankle bite may be the worst you get. One thing left after such an experience…a good Scotch. I’m a grandmother and have learned all this first hand…learned to not be a pussy and take command.
Jenny
Aug 22, 2013 at 9:55 pm
Right on Deanna! I haven’t achieved everything you have listed here (how many rooms do you have??) but I know from my own 45 years of experience that if your dogs don’t respect you, they will do what their instinct tells them to do. There HAS to be a Boss even in a “pack” of two, so it’s either you or it will be them. If you control the food, where and when they go in or out, and require a task for every reward (sitting before meals, etc), 99% will get it that you’re The Boss.
As for the hybrid-wolf woman who posted first, breeding them is irresponsible and cruel to the animals and their future owners. They were part of a pack (a human family) and then they were exiled (left with strangers in a strange place) for no reason other than they got too wild for people who should have known better. For a wild wolf, being exiled from their pack is pretty much a death sentence. I will be volunteering soon at the Loki Wolf Refuge in New Hampshire where some of those “tame” wolves and hybrids end up after their owners realized their mistake. Breeding and selling wolves and wolf hybrids should be illegal.
DanAlpha
Aug 13, 2013 at 7:01 pm
Take your leash , double it up, and swing it at the dogs while speaking in a commanding tone, “STOP” or “NO”. If they still don’t stop , increase the frequency with which you strike them as well as the intensity. I got a vicious rottweiler off of my puppy German Shepherd that way. A vicious dog needs to know respect for humans, otherwise someone can get hurt.
Jessica
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:56 pm
You should all be ashamed of yourselves! First off, this is a post about HOW TO STOP A DOG FIGHT, not HOW TO INSULT ANOTHER HUMAN. A little FYI for all of you, I, a C.V.T., and many others I know, would be happy if a cattle prod was all it took to save the dog and the human from injury. Now as for how to break up a fight when you are alone, Cheesey and LAME!!!! Good luck trying to be successful with the idea stated here. Breaking up dog fights is never easy. The best I can tell you is use your best judgement and whatEVER you have on hand to assist you without putting yourself or the animals in undo jeopardy. Remember the goal here is for EVERYONE to get out with out lossing pieces of themselves. I have to say, as a person who has been bitten many times by many sizes of dogs, I am proud of ANYONE who loves their animals enough to get in the middle of a fight between ANY kind of wolf-hybred!!! It is much better then what others would do.
Lawrence Stepp
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:45 pm
Use a water hose. Spray the dogs with the water and they will brake apart and run away from each other.
Diana Lesizza
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:38 pm
I wish I could post the pictures of the results of my trying to break up a dog fight! I ended up with 3 stitches in my wrist! I wish even more, that I had been able to see this story before attempting to break it up! LOL! I had nightmares for weeks! Both dogs were okay afterwards, thank God!
Al
Aug 13, 2013 at 5:36 pm
geez. Maybe she really is Alfa! 🙂 She was innocently trying to share her experience in separating fighting wolves and inadvertently exposed herself as less than intelligent. Hopefully she will find another way to make a living before she or someone else gets seriously hurt, not to mention being on the edge of animal abuse.
Samantha
Aug 13, 2013 at 5:13 pm
I have a 5 year old 4 pound yorkie and a 3 year old 14 pound pomaranian. They seem to get into it at random times. It’s starts when The yorkie stands on her back legs and uses her front to hold herself on top of my pomaranian. Well she doesn’t like that so she starts to growl and it happens like that the yorkie immediately bites the back of my pomaranians neck and usually ends up getting her back legs. It’s hard to grab her because she’s so small and literally climbs all over the pomaranian usually the pomaranian is on her back trying to get ahold of the yorkie all the while the yorkie usually has a good grip on her back legs or butt. When I grab my yorkies back legs no joke she is hanging on to my pomaranians back leg, butt, or knee. I know I could get bit but I have to place my hands around the yorkies mouth and force her jaw open to release the pomaranian. She now has a little bigger then a quarter size scab right underneath her right leg. She can’t reach it to nurse the wound and has that thick corse hair you can barely see her skin I have brushed some of the scab out and she seems to enjoy that in moderation since she can’t lick it. So my first question is how can I seperate these two if the yorkie is hanging by the pomaranians back legs and when I pick the yorkie up by hers she still doesn’t let go. Second question is what can I put on my pomaranians wound to help it heal faster and not bother her, causing her to drag her but and reopen the wound? Sorry for the novel, any input would be appreciated
Samantha
Aug 13, 2013 at 5:25 pm
***i would also like to mention I have two huskies one that is 4 and is a wolf mix, when these little fights break out between the two little dogs, she wants nothing to do with it. She does play rough and is very vocal with the other husky but not aggressive. She usually runs and hides from the fights
Jen
Aug 16, 2013 at 5:06 pm
I too have a Wolfdog, not a hybrid since wolves were reclassified as canines and now considered the same species as dogs. People who don’t have first hand experience with the breed don’t understand that they require intense socialization their entire life and miles of walking and running per day. They are smart and when they don’t have an outlet for that energy they get in big trouble. They don’t act like dogs therefore they can’t be treated like dogs. But they are not wolves either, they will die if you put them out in the wild. They do not make good “pets” they do make amazing companion animals if you are willing to put in the work. But it is a commitment for life as they bond to you like you are their family and will often be put to sleep when you give up on them. My wolfdog, Maximus, is 120+ lbs. I also have an 85 lb. Pitt Bull mix from the shelter who will kill you with kisses and a Doberman who is a therapy dog. When the two puppies get to play fighting he calmly watches until it gets too rough or someone gets stepped on. He calmly walks up and smashes the aggressor to the ground with his paw and holds them there for a min. fight is over everyone kisses and makes up. He is three years old and a fully mature adult male. He loves people and follows the commands of my friends 5 year old like they are the law. He lives indoors, in a subdivision, and yes he eats raw meat. He is terrified of my friend’s 4 lb. Pomeranian and rolls on his back in full submission when it comes near him. My all of my neighbors absolutely love him as do local law enforcement who call him their unofficial K9. He is a well balanced dog trained with positive reinforcement. He looks like he stepped off of a wildlife show, but he has the heart of a butterfly and almost human like emotions. Just wanted to chime in so the disease of misinformation the media puts out about “bad breeds” doesn’t infect too many people. I have three of these “bad breeds” living under one roof and they are the three most amazing happy souls you will meet. If you don’t promote racial profiling then please don’t judge a breed on the actions of a few.
Susan
Aug 25, 2013 at 3:54 pm
Judging a type of wild animal is far from the same thing as judging a person based on color. Statistically these animals are far more likely to attack than any other type of canine other than maybe a pit bull which by the way is only at the top of the list because of some very bad breeders. This is based on percentages not by actual amounts of bites compared to other breeds. That would not be a fair observation and there are far fewer hybrids than there are Shepherds, Dobermans, Rotties and some of the other breeds nearer the top. Wolves and wolf hybrids should be put in the same category as lions, tiger, bears and monkeys and not our domesticated dogs. They are meant to be in the wild and should only be caged based on individual circumstances such as for study that will help keep their wild population safe, breeding programs to reintroduce them to the wild or rehabilitation and maybe even zoos if they have the proper environment for them.(I don’t exactly believe that zoos are the best place for these beautiful animals but I do think that when people are able to see these animals in captivity they better appreciate them in the wild and are more likely to respect their habitat) Yes, some of these wild animals can appear affectionate and respond to training but the fact remains that the wild instinct is always there and is only compressed under what you think you have trained them to be. At the drop of a hat this so called training can be forgotten and they can turn on an owner or more likely your children. 19 deaths and 46 maimings in 28 years is quite a lot when you factor in that Hybrids are only .003% of the “dog” population. More than 3/4 of those incidents are on children. What this means to me is that even though a person may think they are alpha when it comes to these hybrids is that their children are not and never will be. If you put your child in a home with one of these animals it is not much different than leaving a loaded gun out where a child can get to it. I know many children have grown up with them and I have to admit that even my dad had one 30 some odd years ago named “Nasty” and that’s just what it was a nasty tempered dog but there is no way in Hell that I will ever have one around my child no matter what the temperament appeared to be.
hambone
Aug 21, 2013 at 1:34 am
I’ve got a doberman who starts fights w/a pit & I have thrown water on them, which has worked, but I now have several plastic spray bottles around the house filled w/vinegar, & spray it in their mouth, or at the face if not possible to get it in the mouth. Lately they’ll both back off at the site of the bottle. You might try apple cider vinegar if you don’t have vinegar.
Redneck Chick
Aug 25, 2013 at 11:08 am
Hambone, I have found that using a spray bottle full of vinegar sprayed right in the mouth works fantastically as well. The water hose works best, but if you don’t have one available, the spray bottle is a great alternative.
kim
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:26 pm
Hi Samantha, I would say neosporine for the wound. I would go online and look up the dog whisperer. I bet he can tell you a reason and a way to stop them. Good luck.
John
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:51 pm
I can tell you from experience – I broke up a fight for who was next inline for being the Alpha between the second oldest who normally was very calm and timid and accepted his role in the chain immediately and with out a fight and a rescued one year old, out in the middle of a pasture. I had the younger in the air using one arm (only weighed about 50 lbs) and the older had him by the throat, in what I thought was a deadly attack. During the course of splitting them up, I felt something hit my finger two or three times, and then the older dropped to the ground and started to wimper. With him letting go, and the younger wanting to get back at the older, I dropped to the ground with the younger under my weight. I was moving the young one around while looking for punctures as his neck and chest were now red with blood (his coat in that area was white). I could not find anything and then looked at my hand – half of the right middle finger was attached to hand by a piece of skin about 1/4 inch in width.
Two surgeries, 84 IVs and two weeks later I walked out of the hospital missing 1/2 of my finger. According to the Dr, I was very lucky that it was not the hand I lost due to infection and I remained on 6 IVs/day for another 6 weeks and took antibiotics for a month after that.
Luci Josiane
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:13 pm
I noticed it was mentioned above about certain breeds being linked closer to wolves. I have Shiba Inu, they are nearly unchanged since they were first found. My dogs have a DIRECT link to wild dogs/ wolf hybrid like lineage. My two males I have, act a lot differently than most dogs and will fight only for posession. The only way to break them up is to grab one by the tail and lift him up and out, if you’re by yourself. However, I’ve found that using a flip flop really really hard on the ground makes for a really loud startling noise just long enough to separate them. I am truly the dominant one in the household. My dogs ask permission to go in and out the back door to go outside, they’re only a year old as of tomorrow. However, as puppies they still try to do naughty things on occasion, but they RESPECT me.
Kathy
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:17 pm
What a cruel way to break up a fight! It would be nice if one day the dogs could take that prod and whatever else she uses away from this cruel person and use it one her! Until then, only we can be their voice so…. Are you Stupid or just plain Ignorant? Hybrid Wolves?? My gosh…. You need to be somewhere letting scientist run test on you for stupidity….. Poor dogs leave them be … by the way your banjo is wai
ting on you… to be ‘DELIVERED’ that is!
As Forrest Gump use to say… “Stupid is as stupid does”!
Kimberly
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:03 pm
My Aussie who is 4 months old was attacked today by 2 smaller very aggressive dogs. He did it get injured but should I report the incident to animal control? The dogs were loose with no owner in sight.
Vicki
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:35 pm
Hell YES !!
Z Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:48 am
Yes!! My Dalmatians we attacked by the neighbors 4 Chi’s. I never reported it, because I’d just hoped it wouldn’t happen again. It happened about 20 times after that. My older dog finally retaliated on one of them and it woke the owners up to keep my dogs safe. Those little rats bit every kid in the neighborhood. The owners 5 years later, have had to put 2 down and decided to rehome a Chinese Crested they had in addition to the other 4. All they would do when their mutts attacked was run over pick their precious rats up and carry them into the house!! They never even came back out to see the blood that their dogs drew on mine. I’ve put my dogs through training and I still can’t bring them around ANY little dogs!! They are scarred for life
Debbie
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:59 pm
I have a Rat TERRIER and a Jack Russell Terrier; they are both females and HATE each other. They may be little, but very aggressive (only with each other); otherwise very tame. When they get together, they grab each other with their teeth and HOLD ON FOREVER! Water does not work, can’t find anything that works. We do everything to keep them apart, but sometimes that doesn’t work. One is outside in a pen and the other is inside. The one inside gets out sometime when someone comes inside the house and sticks her nose in the pen and the other one grabs it with her teeth. It is a nightmare trying to get them apart. Other than getting rid of one of them (and we love them both dearly), any advise?
Vicki
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:34 pm
I’m sorry to say, but in this really bad situation, I would have to let one go, who ever is the most aggressive. I got 2 brothers once and I was always finding a LOT of hair out of the smaller one around the house. Then one day I caught them, the larger had the smaller by the throat and dragging him around. They were Papillons. My husband and I decided the larger would have to go. He went to a home where he was the only dog and lived out his life.
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 6:14 pm
I agree. And while it seems the penned dog is “attacking” the inside dog, well, wouldn’t YOU? The inside dog gets to live inside & still comes and pokes her nose into your outside cage every chance she gets?! I’d bite her nose, too! It’s the refusal to leave the penned dog alone (even though the inside dog actually has the better part of the arrangement) that shows the root of the aggression; the penned dog biting an invading nose is pure self defense.
Lexy Conny
Aug 19, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Try walking them together , both of them muzzled. Let them outside together muzzled and supervised. If your dogs listen to you , they will understand that is a behavior you don’t agree with and they will ignore each other . They might never play together , but by doing activities with both of them , like training , running , agility , walking , they might start to get along. If you are the leader , they won’t have to fight each other for the alpha position. Also , watch them and see which one of them starts the fights . That one should recieve much more training. Sadly , when people have yards , they forget to walk their dogs , get them tired enough . They think that romping around the yard alone is enough but dogs need to get tired mentally as well. If you can , get a treadmill and make them run on it for half an hour , an hour a day , while being in the same room . A skilled trainer can help you make them get along. I have watched the Dog Whisperer and he had a lot of similar cases. With the implication of the owners , the dogs got along just fine in the end. Don’t give up and don’t get discouraged if at first you don’t succeed . It takes time and patience to do this. Education , exercise and you being the leader will solve your problem.
Deborah Ethridge
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:16 pm
Easiest method is to throw a towel over both of the dogs or if a chair is hand get the chair over one of them. You can then easily leash them with less threat to yourself.
sam
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:10 pm
I Use a cattle prod if a big A$$ Wolf hybrids were fighting There is no way i would go near them with just a leash, that’s just asking to get bitten. I am not saying you should use one but i would not say no if my dog was getting torn apart!!!
Cindy
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:31 pm
Using a cattle prod can GIVE your dog a heart murmur REALLY do you want that to happen to your dog. Wolves are Wolves and should be where they BELONG in the wild. They are NOT meant to be domesticated. Why not have a Polar Bear as a house pet too? Really folks get real. Use your flippen brains instead of your ego’s. Do some research and see how many wolf crosses actually make GOOD family pets. “Majority of Wolf Crosses DON”T make for good family pets. So you selfish people that BREED for this are just that SELFISH and egotistic. I hate reading this shit because there are one to many IDIOTS out there breeding and owning dogs that just SHOULDN’T. Do the dog world a favour get a turtle.
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 7:29 pm
NO no don’t get a turtle.
Z Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:35 am
Did you think you shouldn’t have them if you can’t control them??? If they’re tame enough to respect you as your “alpha”, then they wouldn’t even think about crossing the boundaries? Get real and turn them over to some place that will care for them better than you!!
rinki
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:08 pm
or spill water or whistle or make some noise that will distract them or leave them alone, often they fight more in their human friend’s presence (esp. males) to show who’s boss; when they receive no attention, they may simply stop (unless in heat which is another matter)
Aggie
Mar 11, 2013 at 4:34 pm
Some comments here make me laugh, really. Why would somebody pick on person who breeds hybrids by claiming they are wild animals? Well dogs are just that – domesticated wolves. Humans picked ones that haven’t feared or been aggressive towards humans and started breeding them. That’s how dogs began.
Another ignorant comment that there are so called killer dogs – the biggest rubbish of all. No dog has been born bad – humans make them that way. Pit bulls haven’t been bred for dogfighting, neither were Rottweilers. Stupid and ignorant people just repeating tv bullpoop without thinking about what they saying.
I work with dogs for living, and I know that the reason behind aggressive animal is ALWAYS human. Dogs aren’t vicious by nature – they are pack animals that crave company and rules. People are too stupid to recognise that and dogs have to pay the price. Dogs are animals whether you like it or not and should be treated as such – not put in a handbag, dressed in stupid doggy clothes or given cocoa before bed.
People – respect and love dogs for what they are and do not try to force them to be something they are not!!
Elizabeth
Mar 2, 2013 at 10:02 am
Pit Bulls or Rotties are sometimes dog aggressive but if they are raised correctly they will NEVER be human aggressive. I would give my life for my pit bull because she would do the same for me. Please do your research before you malign this breed, Crystyle. No small child should be unsupervised with ANY dog. A kid poking a dog in the face, patting it on the head, hugging it…. those are threatening to the dog. Learn dog body language and supervise. Comments like yours lead to Breed specific legislation and sometimes death for these loving dogs.
Kris
Feb 28, 2013 at 4:12 pm
You can also hit them with a very large bucket of water.
KIM
Feb 27, 2013 at 6:14 pm
MY AUNT USED TO THROW A LARGE POT OF COLD WATER ON THEM OR TURN THE HOSE ON THEM & IT WORKED GREAT
Vicki
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:28 pm
I had to break up a fight when a neighbors dog jumped our fence and attacked my dog in our backyard. I was so grateful when this happened. I used the water hose I had in hand and switched the spray to “jet” and used it on the aggressor. After he backed off my dog and came I me I sprayed him right in the face and he ran off. Then I called animal control who picked up the dog. His owner was MAD because he had to pay a huge fine and keep his dog muzzled when outside. Too bad, I should be able to enjoy MY yard without fear@!+
hambone
Aug 21, 2013 at 1:41 am
use a spray bottle filled w/ vinegar or apple cider vinegar & spray them whenever they do anything you don’t want them to do. If they are locked in a fight try to get it in their mouths.
dana
Feb 27, 2013 at 6:01 am
this method doesn’t work with a mastiff… our mastiff went after our lab, and i had both back feet up in the air (mastiff’s) and she still wouldn’t let go. My husband had to put her in a headlock to get her to release.
Eliz
Feb 26, 2013 at 2:29 pm
I broke up two dogs when I was alone by throwing water on their heads. They were both startled and jumped away from each other, so I grabbed one and separated them. And one of them was a Pitbull and the other a Chow.
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 6:02 pm
My family has always had multiple large-breed dogs since before I was born. Water distraction has ALWAYS been the first response when they have gotten into arguments with each other or other dogs. I cannot even begin to estimate the number of fights that immediately ended using water distraction. We have NEVER, NOT ONCE, had injuries to the dogs or to ourselves due to the fight or the breaking up of a fight. Far easier, quicker, safer, and more effective than the techniques outlined in this article…and vastly more humane than a cattle prod (some people just shouldn’t have animals).
Kym
Aug 19, 2013 at 9:53 pm
That does not work with Pit Bulls — as a terrier, their instinct is grab, hold, and shake.
Michelle
Feb 26, 2013 at 12:04 pm
Crystle, rottweilers and pit bulls are NOT dangerous breeds. They are no more dangerous than cocker spaniels and chihuahuas. Ask many groomers and trainers which dogs are hardest to handle….. it won’t be the pits and rotties….. Actually, cocker spaniels bite more often than any other breed – look it up!! Pit bulls are some of the absolutely sweetest, most affectionate, loyal dogs there are. But every time one DOES bite someone, it makes the news. There are more people bitten by other, smaller dogs than by pits, but you never hear about it. Rotties make wonderful family pets too. ANY dog needs to be properly socialized and trained when it’s young – ANY dog has the potential to be aggressive – there are NO bad breeds – only bad owners. HOWEVER – wolves and wolf hybrids are NOT a good idea. Wolves are wild animals – and yes, our domesticated dogs of today come from wolves and wolf hybrids – but they have gone through centuries of breeding and domestication. I love all dogs – I am not afraid of ANY breed of dog. But I do think it is foolish to have a child around a wolf hybrid. You are asking for trouble…..IMO.
Melissa
Feb 26, 2013 at 12:38 pm
Michelle – thank you for standing up for the Pit Bulls and Rottweilers! I totally agree and find it sad that there are so many misconceptions about these breeds!
Lindsey
Aug 13, 2013 at 12:47 pm
I am very glad that there are so many great comments as to why no one should ever blame a certain breed for being aggressive. When I saw Crystles comment my blood actually boiled. Its terrible that there are so many ignorant and uneducated people out there who are so willing to throw in their 2 cents when they couldn’t be more wrong. I don’t have anything much more to add as a lot of people have chimed in here to try and explain why people shouldn’t assume these things. Sadly most people who think what Crytle does are set in their ways. That is why it is up to us the “responsible dog owners” to be activists for our breeds and to help them be the best dogs they can be. When you have a Rottweiler that listens to your every word and command and doesn’t react to other dogs and ignores them when told to…that’s how we put these people in their place, and with smiles on our faces! I am a Rott owner, I know all too well!
Lisa
Feb 26, 2013 at 11:47 am
Unfortunately, this form of breaking up a dog fight, does not work for fighting pit bulls. From much experience, as the owner of multiple pits, there really is NO way of separating them. I have suffering being bitten, as well as extreme vet bills as a result. 🙁
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:52 pm
Have you tried spraying them with the hose? My pit-shepard-boxer mix HATES water & would likely run from even just a spray bottle of water regardless of the circumstances (though she has never been in a physical altercation with anything worse than our old house cat, and the cat wins every time, again proving that certain stereotyped breeds are NOT “bred to fight and kill”). Even if the dogs like water, the spray of water creates a distraction which often gives the opportunity to intervene safely. Better than a cattle prod or gun, for sure.
Maire
Aug 17, 2013 at 5:54 pm
@ Lisa, I also own several pit bulls. Neither would harm a fly unless out right attacked. My younger female (honestly most loving, protective,sweetest) girl I have ever raised has been attacked 3 different times by the same *ss*ole mixed breed (dog and family finally moved/evicted) so threat removed, but long story short, I was able to get my own off the other dog (without a scratch)–but my daughter and I both got bitten trying to get the other dog away. I came to this article looking for a good solution if you were alone. The first suggestion seemed reasonable if there are two people. I can’t buy the second (if alone). Dog fights are vicious. Sometimes inescapable though. In the last fight, my younger female ran down the walkway to the front door, getting behind the much larger, older male pit and this other little bitch came flying down the walkway growling and snapping towards both of them. All the while, the other owner standing there while we are screaming to her to grab her dog. If our older (and much larger)male pit had engaged,it would have been all over! He did NOT! I was just as mad at the owner as I was the dog. Not only did she do absolutely nothing to try and get her dog, while my daughter and I were bleeding from her dog’s bites, but it was her fault that her dog was out at the same time to begin with! So for all you Pit Bull haters, it was a mixed breed (part beagle) that attacked my pit bull. I got the pit bull to stop and the mixed breed kept coming! Did the pit engage when attacked? You bet! But I was able to control her. The bites on one of her legs was so bad that her leg was swollen for a week. If she had hurt or killed the other dog, all the haters would have claimed because it was a pit bull!! And THATS JUST BULL!
Scott
Aug 22, 2013 at 5:12 pm
Best way to release a ‘pit bull’ or any dog that has bitten and will not release is a bite stick. I carry one with me on all my walks. I have a true pit bull (APBT) who has been in several fights but not once has he started it, it’s always the other dog – usually off-leash or with an owner who doesn’t understand how to introduce two dogs. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve crossed to the other side of the street to avoid another dog just to have the owner mirror my moves and try to approach. Stupid people are the problem, not the dog. As for a APBT or AmStaf, the danger when they bite comes from them being a terrier breed and the bite style of a terrier. Most dogs bite-release-bite-release. A terrier – be a Jack Russell, Rat Terrier, APBT – are different. They bite-hold-shake (which is why they are good hunters of small game). With a Jack Russell, it’s not that big of a deal, but with a 50-60lb APBT, that creates a lot of damage fast. If they can get those muscular thighs, neck and shoulders into play, the damage is 1000 times worse.
Crystle
Feb 26, 2013 at 11:36 am
I love most dogs but will never own or go near a pittbull or rotweiler. I have seen to many small children hurt and bitten by these breeds. Owners swear to how sweet they are but these sweet breeds have even turned on their owners and even killed a 9 month old that supposedly this pittbull loved. These killer dogs are bred to fight and kill and no matter how good of an owner you are, they can turn on you at any time much more so than other breeds!!
Melissa
Feb 26, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Crystle, as an owner of a pit bull type dog as well as a Rottweiler – I disagree with you. If you do your research, you will learn that Golden Retriever (I also have a Golden too) bites are more common than bites from pit bulls or Rottweilers. I feel sad anytime that I read comments like the one you posted about specific breeds as it is misinformation. Please take the time to visit your local animal shelter or your local Rottweiler or Pit Bull breed group for correct information about these breeds and dog behavior in general.
Steve
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Melissa~ I could not agree with you more. Excellent dogs. bad PR. It’s just pits & AmStaffs turn in the barrel. Previously it was German Sheps, Rotties, Dobermans and even Dalamations. And you are correct with your golden info. We have 2 Aussie Cattle dogs and a pit. The pit is by far the most affectionate. I like the leash around the waist plan. Hope I never need it, but good to know.
kattee
Aug 15, 2013 at 10:06 pm
True, it is so disheartening to read negative comments about Pit’s. As someone in rescue I have witnessed these poor dogs saved, 1/2 their body torn apart, health deterorating beyond any sort of comfort and the first thing they do is give the officer a big kiss on the nose. Goes to show that sometimes upbringing, training, and treatment can’t even change a beautiful soul.
Laurel
Aug 16, 2013 at 2:08 am
Dog bite statistics will reflect the numbers of a given breed in the area being reported on. The most popular breeds will be at the top of the bite statistics lists, simply because they outnumber other breeds in that area’s population.
All dogs bite. The only way to really impact public safety is through good, non breed specific laws that are well enforced and a proactive dog bite prevention program with a strong outreach element, particularly in schools.
Every kindergartner learns to Stop, Drop and Roll in a fire. How many of them in your community know what to do if they encounter a stray dog on the street ? Or the top ten ways to get bit by your own dog ?
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 7:03 pm
Thank you, Melissa. Other breeds of dogs have also killed. The misinformation needs to stop.
Laurie
Feb 26, 2013 at 12:40 pm
That is just an ignorant comment.. They are some if the most loyal dogs around. I have been a vet tech for 12 years. You are feeding into exactly what the media portrays, which is sad. In the 70s it was the German shepherd, 80s the Doberman, 90s the Rottweiler, and now it is the pitbull…. The very dog that was the mascot for our county, did Petey of the little rascals ever bite the kids, or the buster brown mascot? Do your research… Check the American temperament testing website.. It is non biased, and gives you the TRUTH about the breed. I volunteer at our shelter on a regular basis and can tell you in the last year we have had to euthanize 2 pit bulls due to aggression… Others have been Great Pyrenees, Labradors (many of them), Boston terrier, just to name a few. I rescue these dogs, and actually have 11 dogs at the moment…. One if which is a certified therapy dog. Are you one of those people that judge people by the color of their skin? This is just as ridiculous as doing that. Sad that our media sources portray them as vicious killers… My son sleeps with two, and yes they will protect him and my family to their death which is a quality that I want in a dog.
Mel
Feb 28, 2013 at 1:34 pm
Well said Laurie!
holly barnett
Mar 31, 2013 at 3:23 pm
laurie, i so agree. the dangerous dogs are decided upon as to which year it is. the little rascals dog was a pit. my pit is a sweetheart. will lick you to death. i had a mixed breed that almost killed a neighbors dog. so breed doesnt matter. people are the enemies not the dog. you should of seen my daughters 2 male pit bulls playing with the neighbors poodle. it was a sight to see.
holly barnett
Mar 31, 2013 at 3:24 pm
also, look up “nanny dogs”!!
T Schaffer
May 16, 2013 at 7:09 pm
I have a male pitbull and he is the sweetest dog. Our dogs fight, but believe it or not, the pitbull is NOT the one who starts them. The dog that starts the fights is the FEMALE…and yes, i said female…Daschund mix. She IS NOT a small dog. She weights 10 pounds less than our pitbull, and she is just as strong. She is also thinks she is the “alpha” dog because she was “here” first.
The only reason society thinks pitbulls are mean and aggressive, is because they ALWAYS think it is the dogs fault. The ONLY reason you hear aweful stories about pitbull attacks, is because the owner either has trained the dog to fight, or has not even tried to train the dog. Yes, dogs will fight every now and then. But do not “sterotype” dog breeds, because every breed can attack. From the smallest breed of dogs, to the largest breed of dogs. ALL dogs can be dangerous to an extent. It all depends on how one trains them.
So stop listening to society about what breed of dog is worse. Because in reality, when an “unsupervsed” dog attacks, the owner is partially blame for 1) Not stopping the dog from attacking in the fist place, and 2) Their lack of or no proper training for the dog.
mary
Feb 22, 2014 at 12:29 am
I AGREE WITH THIS.
sue
Aug 18, 2013 at 12:03 am
Yeah everyone always defending their Big Dogs. No matter if it’s a Pit, Doberman, or whatever I personally haven’t heard of any Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, or Shih-tzu dogs killing anyone or maiming them for life…. just saying.
Susan
Aug 25, 2013 at 4:09 pm
Maybe that’s because they are not big enough. Doesn’t make them any less aggressive. I have 20 German Shepherds, a Labrador Retriever and a 2 year old daughter. I’m ashamed to say that my daughter has been bitten once, by someone else’s Chihuahua that ran up and attacked her. And she lives amongst 20 German Shepherds in our kennel and home that have never even appeared to act ugly towards her. Just saying. Little dogs aren’t all angels, just less damaging!
Terry
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:15 pm
exactly
KIM
Feb 27, 2013 at 6:16 pm
SAME USED TO BE SAID ABOUT DOBERMAN’S & GERMAN SHEPHERDS DOGS ARE NOT BORN MEAN THEY R RAISED THIS WAY
mary
Feb 22, 2014 at 12:41 am
I have raised my bullies with love,they have not every known any abuse and the two females like I said would kill each other,but to anyone they are the most loving sucks ever, it is rivalry and territory I assume,both want to be top bitch in the household. The trainer at k-9 concepts says I am doing everything right by just keeping them separated. But my females are mean only to each other.
Julio
Aug 13, 2013 at 11:24 am
Oh Crystal, Crystal. Education, not ignorance. I’ve seen lots of humans kill and mame adults,children. Those rotten humans must be all breed and raised to kill too. Which should we dispose of first? Are you gettin my drift?
Jody
Aug 17, 2013 at 9:34 am
well said. 🙂
P T Scott
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:52 pm
As I said above I have had Dobie’s Rot’s & Pom’s which the one I have at my store snapped at a young child today. (He won’t be back at the shop again) Never seen him do that before, but he is a dog. The only thing about a big dog is the same difference between a Shetland pony and a 15 hand horse. If they step on your foot it’s going to hurt it is just a matter of degree. My son at the tender age of 5 was bit on the side of the face by the cutest black 6 month old chow. Two surgeries later he is fine and still loves dogs & has 2 boxers. He is 36 now, you can see the scar still a little on the side of his face. So believe me I understand both sides. He nor I blame the dog. The dog had snapped earlier at another child, so it’s the owners fault. Always ask if you can pet a persons dog, and always, always keep your body between the dog and your child.
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:41 pm
Your previous comment also states you use a cattle prod to walk your dogs. This comment discusses how they are turning against you, your family, and your customers. If you do not see that connection, you may have a cognitive disability.
P T Scott
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:54 pm
Oh 2nd reply, my Vet prefers Rotties to Poodles, because of the temperament. She has never been bitten by a Rottie but lots of Poodles.
Luci Josiane
Aug 13, 2013 at 4:11 pm
Pit bull, bull dogs, and bull terriers ( bred from mixing terriers to a bull dog) were all bred to bait bulls during the late 1700’s. Once bull baiting became illegal in the 1800’s where they were then selectively bred for dog fights. So, they were trained to do specific things to PLEASE their owners. These dogs are extremely loyal and will do anything to please theire owner. Did you know that pitbulls were rated THE most patient dogs with kids? They’re used as therapy dogs too!
Kathleen Daley
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:47 pm
Those dogs were not originally bred to bait bulls. They were bred as an all around farm dog and especially to babysit the children.
I’m sure that somewhere along the line their tenacity was noticed and some guy yelled “I bet my dog can hang on longer than yours” and thus a new cruelty pretending to be sport was perpetrated upon the animal that only wanted to please.
Annie Getyourgun
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:11 pm
You’re right. Pitbulls are extremely patient. They patiently wait for that perfect moment when they can devour the new baby or next door’s poodle without interruption.
Susan
Aug 13, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Crystel have you actually witnessed pit bull attacks or just read or heard about the attacks? Did you read about the pomeranian that killed a baby last week? Little dogs kill too. Pitbulls were once known as “Nanny dogs” People would buy them to babysit their children. If it wasn’t for the media pitbulls would just be dogs! Stop spreading your uneducated opinion.
laura
Aug 14, 2013 at 7:12 pm
if i’m not mistaken are not ALL dogs originally from the wolf and pitbull breed being aggressive and bred for fighting in the wrong hands ANY dog will be aggressive a nasty dog is the one holding the lead i am blessed with 5 GSD’s all large all loyal all softies unless there is a threat i have been bitten twice first time was a poodle and second a westie back to the original posting very interesting piece
Z Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:25 am
Another ignorant person!!! I had a Lapsa Apso…(rat dog) bite my face when I was a teen. We were on our way to Fl. No provoking. Just hopped in my lap and bit me! I have NEVER EVER had a Pitty bite me!!
Jeanni Davis
Aug 16, 2013 at 12:07 pm
Crystle, I understand your apprehension concerning breeds of dogs that you have seen personally act aggressively. But as a dog trainer I just wanted to say to you and anyone else who has breed specific exclusive ideas that it has little to do with the breed itself. Yes, unfortunately, pitbulls were and are intentionally bred to be aggressive. That’s a sad fact, but I have had many, many pitbulls in my classes who were sweet and affectionate and as un-aggressive as any of the other dogs I’ve been privileged to know. The simple fact that their owners were responsible enough to take them to training classes and were willing to work with them speaks volumes! And yes most bully breeds and some others need a little bit different approach in their training, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the entire breed can’t be trusted. As for Rottweilers, they were originally bred to pull carts and herd animals. Nothing aggressive like fighting or attacking. Please don’t judge an entire breed by a few experiences. All dogs should, like people, be judged on a one-to-one basis.
CAC
Aug 16, 2013 at 3:12 pm
You do know that the reason pit bulls were chosen as “fighting dogs” is because (unlike other dogs of the same size), pit bulls will generally NOT attack a human being even if they are fighting each other. A human trainer could step into the pit and separate the fighting dogs without fear of being bitten or attacked. Pit bulls are extremely loyal, and have a strong need to please their owners. In the case of rotten owners (like people who fight dogs) this trait can be used against the dog.
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 7:16 pm
Crystle, I hope you will take Melissa’s comment to heart. It is a struggle to get these pittie types adopted and there is then the hype that they are such great fighting dogs all the big/bad people want to do this. There are unfair BSL laws and general misperception that they should be immediately treated as dangerous. Best Friends had a high success rate of retraining dogs that had been kept for fighting by Michael Vick and associates. They went to families and lived a good life. Some of them became therapy dogs. The American Humane Society and the SPCA had to back down from their dire warnings that this could never happen and the dogs should have been killed. I believe there were 1 or 2 dogs that Best Friends have kept for years because they did not pass the stringent tests they give all their dogs behavior wise before they are placed.
Danni
Aug 18, 2013 at 11:41 pm
Ridiculous. The rest the responses here already cover it all… but in addition to that, I have known several rescued Pitties at our local shelter that I worked very closely with. All were rescue dogs that had come from environments where they were forced to be fighting dogs… many of them were abused in all sorts of ways, many scarred, missing teeth, etc. Not only were they of a breed originally bred for fighting, these particular dogs were also actually used in fights… ( by force )
Most were not even aggressive towards other dogs– those that were were merely afraid. None of them had an ounce of violence towards humans, ( despite the fact that humans had been their abusers, ) and they were all the biggest teddybears I’ve ever met. If Pitties were killers at heart as you claim, this would not be the case after so much cruelty from humans.
On yet another note, your reasoning is faulty. There are countless accounts of even the highly-praised Labrador Retriever turning on and/or killing small children, yet no-one preaches that /Labradors/ are cold-hearted murderers… on the contrary, they remain just as highly-praised as family dogs as ever.
As already stated, records show that registered attacks are actually carried out by the highly-praised breeds much more often than by Pitties and other bullied breeds.
On top of that,cases in which the dog cannot be properly identified often get blamed on Pit Bulls these days because of the hyped-up bad reputation. If a person was unable to identify the dog in question, or the dog was a mutt, they often falsely claim that it was a Pittie. There have been multiple cases of this incident, in which a person would falsely claim that it was a Pittbull, and it would later be discovered that it was an entirely different breed all together, ( either by way of camera footage, other witnesses, or finding of the dog itself. )
Laura
Aug 19, 2013 at 6:42 pm
Crystle, you could not be more wrong. I am owned by my boxer and my pit bull. My rescued pit bull is the kindest, sweetest nanny dog on the planet. She is also a certified service dog, and I am a disabled veteran with two kids and a farm full of animals. Never, EVER, has she shown aggression to any animal (with the exception of house flies, her favorite snack to catch).
I will never have a house without a pit bull. And rescue is my favorite breed.
I am sad for you, that you will never allow yourself to know the love, gentleness, and affection of a bully breed.
molly
Feb 25, 2013 at 9:07 pm
we had a dog mixed with wolf, when i was younger. Toby was Akita and Timber wolf, and he was the most loyal, loving protective dog i have ever seen. 🙂 I saw that dog stand up on his hind legs one night, to stand between a drunk aggressor and my mom. He looked that man right in the eyes, and just stood there. finally the man decided he did not want to mess with my mom, and he walked away. i believe if that dog hadn’t been there, something bad would have happened to my mom. He was a hero, and he was 65% wolf.
that dog used to let my three year old daughter ride on his back, and baby sat her, yeah he was a good dog 🙂
May he rest in Peace, you were a good wolf/dog Toby. <3
molly
Feb 25, 2013 at 9:10 pm
it never really matters the breed of dog, it is all in the raising, and training. i have seem some of the most vicious attacks by Rat Terriers, and Fox Terriers, terrible damage done to children, but these are accepted, house per, small dogs? and if we didn’t hybridize we would not have many of the breeds of domesticated animals we have today.
Miriam
Mar 21, 2013 at 3:34 am
I agree Molly that a wolf and dog hybrid can be a loving gentle animal, depending on the training, primarily, and the genetics too. I’ve known people who owned wolf hybrids they rescued and the wolf-dogs were lovely companions. I am not advocating that the wolf and dogs should be bred, but in my limited experience, the animal that results can be very calm and loving. On the other hand, I currently own a Jack Russell Terrier, Wishbone, 15 years old and in great health, and a healthy rescued Rat Terrier, CoCo, about 8 years old, about 6 months old when we rescued her. In the last year and a half, CoCo has attacked Wishbone three times, twice over a food issue. I have to sit here and laugh or cry at the suggestion that picking up the back legs is a fight-stopper. Au contraire, the terrier grips even harder. My adult daughter was alone the first time, it took three of us to separate the two dogs the second time, and five adults in the third fight. These incidents meant three trips to the vet for Wishbone, whose advanced age, worn down canine teeth and defensive posture made him take the pounding each time. If there is no food around, these two dogs are fast friends and excellent companions. The last incident was the Christmas turkey scraps. The two dogs were at my feet, each getting meat scraps. I bent over to pick up the fork I dropped, CoCo perceived she was not getting a scrap and she took Wishbone, and me, by surprise. It happens SO fast. Actually, with five adults trying to separate the dogs, it still took about 20 seconds, like an eternity. The bite on Wishbone was very minor, mercifully and the next morning, he had it stapled and he was fine. After it’s over, CoCo licks Wishbone and tries to make up to him. I guess I need a Dog Whisperer to help translate. We keep them separate with food now, and I would hate to lose either dog. Perhaps CoCo senses Wishbone’s advancing age and would like to be the alpha dog for a change. Fat chance with a Jack around. So far, fingers crossed, they are getting along fine with no beef bones to argue about or other preferred foods. There was a third dog, a much larger AmStaff mix that was present in the vicinity when CoCo attacked the first and second time, and the third dog might have been a psychological threat or cause for aggression? Well, I love both terriers, and I walk them every day to exercise all of us and use up some of their excess energy. Any thoughts on their behavior are welcome, but I have to keep them both for life.
Deb
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:30 pm
I have a Corgi/JR mix that used to be very food agressive. He would bite at my old, black lab, for getting anywhere near the food bowls while he was eating. I had him fixed, and I worked with him for a long time to rid the agression. I fed them about fifteen feet apart, at first. Slowly, over time I moved the bowls closer together. They can now finally eat right next to one another in peace. It took me about 3 months to do this. Whenever they are receiving treats and scraps, they must be sitting, and very calm before they get the goodie. If they are overly excited or jumping, wiggly etc; they don’t get the treat.
I now have a new puppy to train. He wants to eat only the older dog’s food, not his own. So he is fed seerately as well. When he does manage to make it to the older dog’s bowl, they both back up and give him access. So I am glad that they are both trained to not food aggress; I just hope this puppy will eventually stop wanting to steal their food.
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 7:01 pm
What a pleasure to read this and your success at training.
Anne Thompson
Aug 19, 2013 at 2:11 pm
The two could have been perceiving the energy you were feeling.
You mentioned that you were aware of a stronger looking dog in the vicinity. Could it have been that you were feeding while apprehensive of other dogs approaching. Maybe feeding at a fast pace instead of asking the dogs to sit first, ( in a submissive pose) then receive for their good behavior would have worked better. Dogs LOVE to work for their treats!! I Know I Train that way.!!! Good Luck with treating Pawsitive Behavior before it grows into excitement !!!
Vicki
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:23 pm
Obviously your dog was bred by a knowledgeable, compassionate person. I am not against dog/wolf hybrids. Just idiots who use cattle prods on ANY animal.
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:23 pm
Truth. If someone cattle prodded you, would it make you loyally love, respect & protect them? Or would you be thinking ‘I know where you sleep! My revenge comes soon!’ Why would it be any different for a dog? All it takes is a little empathy to figure this one out, people, just a tiny bit of empathy.
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:27 am
Really? Try a prod, you might like it baby…
Sheryl
Aug 20, 2013 at 2:05 am
Cattle prods are a tool and usually beat a two by four. I have used both effectively. Beats the heck out of dead dogs or stitches. You don’t use them for fun.
angela
Aug 16, 2013 at 10:39 pm
I am happy your particular dog was as wonderful as you say and that your mom was saved by such a loyal friend. but honestly the dog did not do that because he was part wolf. he id it becasue he was an akita, a domestic dog, that was loyal to his family. I do not think people shouldbe breede=ing hybrids. We have enough in shelters as it is that get killed everyday. Why breed prodominantly unstable / haldf wild dogs? Only done for ego, nothing more.
sheri
Feb 25, 2013 at 6:32 pm
Its too bad you didnt get the message when they bit you…obviouly shouldnt be hyrbriding anything. Its a proven study that wolves cannot be pets, so go figure if they bite you…serves you right. And people have the right to be crtical about peoples comments, that’s what social media is for.
I agree with you Mark JOhnson!!! Kay, I hope you are being sarcastic.
Abusing animals is NOT a person’s choice. Good Lord, that’s like saying its okay to abuse children, if its the parents “choice”.
House dogs can turn on you, yes. But Wolves are a different breed, have you see the movie Grey? Might make you think twice about breeding, dogs or, etc.
conn
Feb 27, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Wow are you seriously using a film “grey” as reference to … Naive and uneducared cimes to mind. Everbody quick to critisize and becomes an expert during keyboard discussions… Take your sogs for a walk people x
conn
Feb 27, 2013 at 7:43 pm
On my phone not illiterate lol
Lanie
Aug 16, 2013 at 2:59 am
Lol, The Gray? Really? Maybe you should go look up Full Moon Farms. Speak to them. Learn from them. That’s just one outlet about the wolves. Bright Blessing’s and I hope you never watch The Gray again after you learn the truth.
R Ana
Feb 25, 2013 at 2:44 pm
I don’t think anyone should be critical about other people’s comment. Whether or not it is the people’s choice what they do and their responsibility. I hate when someone calls others names. Like if all of us were “perfect.” Wolves do not attack people unless provoked. I recommend people do some reading and research on them before criticising. House dogs can turn on you too. One of my dogs bit my daughters face once and my daughter loved him. Dogs and all animals are like people with different temperament. It can be genetic or environmental.
Juli
Feb 28, 2013 at 3:44 pm
To Ana,
Please understand, we are not criticizing wolves, I *love*, revere, support & most importantly, *respect* wolves. But, they are , God Bless them, *wild* animals & *never* pets. *YES* we should do all with in our power to protect them, in *their own environment*.
What we are criticizing, & rightfully so, is an individual that has done these magnificent creates a terrible disservice by imprisoning & toying with them in an effort to domesticate them just for the sake of his own ego.
I am deeply concerned that they will end up being put down as a result of his selfish stupidity.
“If you have men who will exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men.”
~St. Francis of Assisi
“All beings tremble before violence. All fear death. All love life.”
~~Buddha
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
~~~ Mahatma Gandhi
Julio
Aug 13, 2013 at 11:16 am
Amen Juli. Your comments are spot on.
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 6:58 pm
yep … added to Julio’s spot on
Robert Fishback
Aug 20, 2013 at 7:08 pm
I have owned a Wolf hybrid and known other Wolf owners as well. I bought my wolf hybrid from being around my friends hybrids. Ukiah, my wolf was smart, beautiful, fast, agile, and very loving.House trained in 2 days. She grew up as a puppy with a old police trained German Shepard. We lived in the Santa Cruz mountains. When I was out on the hill cutting firewood Ukiah would be running around me like a rabbit. The road to my house was dirt with a cliff wall 15-20ft on one side. Uki would know when I was coming home and wait somewhere near the upper part of the quarter mile road. She would run along the ridge as I drove down; as I pulled into the clearing to park I would see her running down the 20ft cliff at the end. Ukiah and her older dog Pasha would hang out together during the day. They had a tight bond with each other. My roommate brought home a 6month old Sheep dog to babysit for a week. The Sheep dog had a Alpha dog attitude towards the older Shepard. Pasha did not want to have to fight this 60 pound young eager to have power dog. Every time the Sheep dog challenged Pasha, Uki would jump in-between and defend Pasha. Uki was 3months old and half the size of the Sheepdog. All she wanted was to maintain the peace so all three could play together. After a few attempts and having Uki sending her flying across the deck, she gave up. Media and Hollywood give dogs bad rap and taint there true characteristics. Many breeds have had their time in the killer circle. The real killer stands on two legs.
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 12:09 pm
GOD BLESS YOU FOR SAYING WITHOUT ANGER,WHAT WE ALL FEEL!
Tammy
Aug 19, 2013 at 8:21 pm
Actually R Ana I just watched a documentary on some wolves that were attacking people and come to find out they were hybrids. A wolf will avoid humans at all cost but a wolf mixed with a dog in the wild loses its fear of humans so to breed them 50/50 can be very dangerous to humans.
danielle
Aug 19, 2013 at 11:40 pm
this is a great way to separate dogs. i had a lab that never bit and if another dog tried to attack her, she would lay down on the ground. when she got in her 13th year she started to change, snip at the cats and other annoying things. she was in pain and that is what makes dogs bite unless they are brought up to bite.
i have a new puppy and first thing we start with is biting. dog owners are not all training there dogs.
Carolyn
Feb 25, 2013 at 11:47 am
“find a way to restrain” the second dog…..okay how do I restrain it? Do I make a habit of keeping TWO leashes with me at all times?
Chris
Feb 25, 2013 at 12:07 pm
I keep 6 leashes in my car at all times. I get them from Amazon for strays and what not. My son brings an extra leash with him on walks with our 4 GSDs for the same reason.
Sherry
Aug 16, 2013 at 4:52 pm
I have taken off my shirt or bra from under my shirt and used that to make a lead and use that as a short leash. Some women wear less at the beach. Even a pair of pants can be used.
tasha benson
Feb 25, 2013 at 11:20 am
i raised hybrid wolves…when they got into fights(either by myself or w my spouse) we grab their tails…after getting bit(myself) we got a cattle prod…its works especially if they wore choker chain collars. just remember if you are holding the dog and stick the prod in their mouth to release each other you will get shocked too….lol…but they knew that prod afterwards and would let go and hide from me for I AM ALFA….shooting off a gun to the ground works too!!!!!!!
mark johnson
Feb 25, 2013 at 11:56 am
You should not be raising these dogs. You are extremely ignorant and the use of a cattle prod is not only animal abuse but very dangerous. I can only hope you shoot yourselves, for you are too stupid to have an animal. Wolves should never be bred or inbred wiht other dgos- you are putting other dogs as well as people at risk of being bitten or killed.
God help you and your animals…
Rednecks shouldn’t breed.
Ann
Feb 25, 2013 at 12:33 pm
You are spot on.
linda
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:46 pm
A cattle prod?! Oh my god someone should grab her and stick it up her ass.
Mark
Aug 14, 2013 at 6:49 am
How many of these people who are “shocked” at the use of a cattle prod have a wireless dog fence?
Dawn
Aug 14, 2013 at 3:55 pm
I agree. Linda….dumba** girl..!!!
Jake
Aug 14, 2013 at 9:48 pm
I think that the ‘raising wolves’ comment was said in sarcasm/as a joke.
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 5:57 pm
Mark a Cattle prod is vastly different than a shock collar used with an invisible fence. Further I do not advocate for a invisible fence either. Especially for any wolfdogs at all, nor do I advocate for the use of a hot wire fencing for containment. However still the fact remains that a cattle prod is made specifically for cattle that have a much higher threshold and tolerance for such that dogs and Wolf Dog crosses do not have.
Ben
Aug 19, 2013 at 5:00 pm
Spot on???? I suppose you missed the part where Mark J. said that she should SHOOT HERSELF?!? Mark J.’s reply is even more repulsive than the original comment about cattle prods.
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 5:41 pm
Ben, go back and re read Mark J post. He said he could only hope. He did not tell her to in fact shoot herself. What is really repulsive are people that seem to think that what she said should be defended and even more so those that would in fact defend her comment. I see that you too probably should not have any animals either as you would probably be OK with the cattle prod
Jen
Feb 27, 2013 at 8:10 am
Mark.. Agreed!
I esp am disgusted at the usage of ‘lol’ in her statement.
roxanne
Mar 31, 2013 at 11:24 am
I totally agree with you, Mark!
Ms. Benson’s post is disgusting! Not only does it reveal the utmost cruelty and disregard for the animals whose welfare she holds, but it also illustrates her total lack of understanding of current scientific knowledge of dominance theory and what the term “Alpha” rally means in wolf behavior.
And her finding this abuse of her animals funny is offensive beyond measure.
Tanya
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:00 pm
Where’s the LIKE button?? I couldn’t have said it better myself!
@tasha benson, Shame on you and those like you! By the way, it’s spelled AlPHa…~eye roll~
bob
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:03 pm
Mark,
Why can’t you simply comment on the technique without having to make personal insults? Contrary to your beliefs everyone who owns a dog is raising a form of a hybrid wolf. Go study animal husbandry before making comments you can not support with facts.
Totally irresponsible statements you made and echo that for the sheep that followed you in the argument.
linda
Aug 13, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Anyone that sticks a cattle prod in an animals mouth deserves more than just insults. They need to be charged with animal cruelty! Disgusting behaviour!
Larry
Aug 20, 2013 at 2:19 pm
Is it any different than the police than using stun guns on humans??
Paula Mulkins
Sep 7, 2013 at 10:14 am
I couldn’t agree more…and to laugh about it is appalling.
marie
Feb 20, 2014 at 1:53 pm
Larry, there is a huge difference between police using a stun gun on a human and using a cattle prod on a dog. Humans have the ability to make choices on a much higher level than an animal. So if a human chooses a path where they are on a level where the police have to stop them because they are a danger to others then they have to pay the consequences. A dog having a cattle prod (that is for a much larger animal) used on them is animal abuse plain and simple. The main problem in the world is that so many humans have no respect for the earth and the animals that inhabit it. It is NOT all about humans and survival. It is about the world and its inhabitants as a whole. 99% of animals are born normal. Humans screw them up by the way they treat them.
Mike
Aug 14, 2013 at 12:11 pm
I agree Bob the insults need to stop. and the cattle prods then need to be taken away from all cattle owners if the sheep are so worried about animal cruelty. And take their right to own guns away as well. Just let them reach in with bare hands and break up the dog fight.
Derek
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:11 am
Oh shut up Mike.
A cattle prod is for a 1000lb animal, not a dog or wolf hybrid.
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 6:53 pm
Make you comment simply shows your incredible level of ignorance!!! I really have to say that you demonstrate an entirely
new level of stupid with you sarcasm
Lane
Aug 14, 2013 at 8:24 pm
Bob,
Thank you for injecting some sanity into this commentary. Mark’s words were reprehensible… and I am in disbelief that so many others would applaud his vicious words. Shame on him and everyone else who thinks it’s ok to speak to anyone with such utter disrespect!!!
Mindy R.
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:15 pm
mark’s words were right on target. The behavior described by the woman in the post is reprehensible.
Melissa
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:17 am
I agree that what is being said is harsh. However, no one should use a cattle prod on any animal. Raising wolves is dangerous & probably not the best idea. I don’t agree that a dog/wolf hybrid is dangerous I have been around a wolf/dog hybrid and that was on of the sweetest dogs I have meet. All animals deserve to be treated humanely.
Alice
Feb 20, 2014 at 12:59 pm
IF something is not done to stop a dog fight, ONE dog will most likely DIE. It happened to neighbors of mine. While the way to stop a dog fight may be cruel, is it not most cruel to let a dog die or loose eye/eyes or be maned for life from terrible injuries. With all heads together here, someone just could come up with a solution. I have heard cayenne pepper in vinegar squirted in the mouth that won’t let go. Good ideas anyone???
Drew
Feb 20, 2014 at 1:54 pm
Most of you need to grow the fuck up. and a wolf hybrid is usually over a hundred pounds. Personally I don’t like cattle prods even for cattle, not going to get weepy if you use one, I just don’t think it is a smart practice. A 5 gallon bucket of water works every time, and it costs less than a shell.
If your not your dogs ALPHA, then you are your dog’s bitch, and that just doesn’t work with large dogs. Hell that doesn’t work with little dogs either, most of you are just too stupid to realize it.
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 6:58 pm
Again Bog go back and reread and lets work on some comprehension this time around!!! mark did not tell her to shoot herself. He said and I quote he can only hope she shoots herself. You see Bob any idiot that would shoot a firearm into the ground risks sending a stray bullet or fragment into an innocent bystander. Hopefully it will be her and not an innocent person. Her level of ignorance is a special kind of stupid in a class all it own!
Sven
Aug 17, 2013 at 10:56 am
Bob, you my friend are 100% correct. Thank you!
LAURA LISHNESS
Aug 18, 2013 at 3:43 pm
“everyone who owns a dog is raising a form of hybrid wolf” NOT! Tasha may think she’s doing something ok, but I know she ISN’T! Do you know how many Hybrids end up being PTS or in rescues for Hybrids? ALOT! It is not fair to raise them, and if you want a dog, go to the shelter…where more are PTS than you can imagine.
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 12:13 am
I feel the statement, “and if you want a dog, go to a a shelter” was offensive in the way it was stated. I personally will adopt any and all pets I have in the future, including dogs, cats and rabbits. However that kind of attitude is like a “better than thou” statement is the very thing that send people running. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of that attitude amongst pro adoption people. I think they, and the person who made the statement do more injustice to the pet adoption system than anyone else does. My mom used to say, “you catch more flies with sugar than with vinegar.” Great food for thought regardless of your viewpoint or your attitude.
Wendy
Aug 19, 2013 at 3:04 am
Get a life bob! Domesticated dogs are far different subject then Wolves! What she is doing is abuse and I hope someone sticks a cattle prod in her mouth followed by yours!
Meghan
Aug 26, 2013 at 10:55 am
Okay so I know this was posted a few days ago but still. Is the world so fucked up that you would really harm a human for using probably the only thing they could think of at the time to break up a dog fight? Do you really care more about an animal’s life than a human’s? These comments make me sick! I am against animal abuse I really am, but honestly if it comes down to a life or death situation the fucking animal is gonna die, not me. It seems the people who have been saying “you should shoot yourselves” or “I would stick a cattle prod in your mouth” seem to value animals lives more than a human’s life. If this is the way the world works where you cant spank your child cause its “abuse” (which its not) and where people are willing to harm humans for a bad judgment on an animal, I honestly dont want to bring any kids into this sick world.
Alex
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:15 am
Oh shut up. You are literally just as bad. “I think it is disgusting to use a cattle prod on an animal! Better use in on a human!” Oh right. That is SO much better. You don’t get to pass judgement on someone’s abusive behavior when you condone another type of abuse. How about we not cattle prod anything and not hope for anything getting shot either? Or am I being too reasonable and rational?
Carolyn davis
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:58 pm
Bob, I concur with you …………its amazing how the name calling keeps going on in the comment section being a “hick” myself I try not to take offense to the lack of intelligence showed here in the comment section.
I do concur with some of the “sheep” that breeding Hybrids is not a wise choice however cultures are mixing breeds all over the world.
Dac
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Sheep? Are you an advocate of animal cruelty?
Dac
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:46 pm
I’m not sure how you can condemn someone for “irresponsible statements” while defending someones irresponsible actions. Sheep? Who are you, Alex Jones?
Michelle
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:05 pm
While I did not raise her, I ended up with a “purebred” wild grey wolf pup. She was a bitch in every sense of the word. I was the Alpha female and the house and she did everything she could to change that situation. She was a most beautiful animal. She was crossbred with my German Shepard (not my doing) and had the most wonderful hybrid pups. Great disposition and beautiful. I have seen the destruction that a wolf can do first hand and was bitten by her often. Please don’t condemn the animal. And be a little more understanding with people. As for the cattle prod being inhumane, I have seen them used on many other animals (including the invisible electric fences and electric fence wires, which most people have no complaint about). And yes, I was accidently hit with one and I know how they feel.
Jennifer Pattini
Feb 20, 2014 at 8:45 pm
Your an Idiot
Dave
Feb 21, 2014 at 12:54 am
And so are you.
Kat
Feb 23, 2014 at 12:05 am
YOU’RE as in you are… duh
peter
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:28 pm
i my self raised big dogs like doberman and german sheppart but to use a caddle prod never even crossed my mind i dont know what kind of person you are but you are more dangerous then the dogs so why dont you breed some mouse so you dont have to worry too much about fights.
just try to be a bit more HUMAN .
Amy
Feb 21, 2014 at 1:14 pm
Actually Bob, Mark is dead on. Dogs are decendants of Wolves, they share similar DNA but that’s it.
To say that anyone that has a dog is raising a wolf hybrid is completely false…a wolf hybrid’s dna is completely different from both dogs and wolves. Again similar characteristics but still different.
You sir are the one that needs to educate himself before making such false statements. I don’t claim to be an expert but I do know my facts. Also watching Ceasar Milan’s special on Wolf hybrids helped me realize just how dangerous these animals can be.
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 10:45 pm
Amy. First you are correct that all dogs did come from the wolf. There have been many divergences from the wolf over the many thousands of years that bring us out current day dogs. Further they are not hybrids, for this very reason. it is clear that misinformation assumption and stupidity abound everywhere and many people even the well meaning ones speak while demonstrating this. The DNA of the Wolf is only .04% differing. That means that dogs and wolves and this includes Wolf Dog Crosses – Yes The correct term is cross not hybrid – share 99.96% of their DNA. That is correct!!! They share 99.96% of the same DNA. Further taxinomicaly speaking a hybrid is the offspring of two DISTINCTIVELY DIFFERING GENETICS. So it seems that you too need to go and relearn some new facts as what you present as fact is sadly misinformation. As to Ceasar Milan, HE has no real experience with WD’s as he points out. Further the show is filled again with a lot of misinformation. While I will agree that I do not believe breeding Wd’s are wise I also will tell you they are no more dangerous than any other dog when treated properly. This is based on many years of hands on experience with WD’s and working with them. However I will also say that when improper handled and poorly bred one can end up with a nightmare to deal with. This is why I do not advocate for the breeding of them
Rob R
Feb 23, 2014 at 5:48 pm
Bob Sounds like you need to go back and study some biology and a few other things as well. First of the use of husbandry is incorrectly use in you sentence. Second Dogs come from wolves and there are many divergences over the thousands of years. They are not hybrids of the wolf, as a hybrid taxinomically would be the offspring of two distinctly different animals genetically. However Dogs and Wolves are not distinctly different. There is only .04% difference in their DNA
pat deshon
Aug 13, 2013 at 4:33 pm
well, a cattle prod is better than a dead or maimed dog….however,
I don’t think wolves do well in captivity…..it’s like putting an orca in a water tank, and nobody would do that – oh wait, Sea World does!!
anyway, whatever animal you find under your care Love and Protect.
Lori
Aug 13, 2013 at 10:11 pm
Thank you, Mark. I can hardly believe what she wrote, much less “LOL”. Seriously? She is “alfa” alright…..A gun????? what the???????
Brett Cole
Aug 14, 2013 at 12:28 am
Mark said it best. But if only we knew where this Tasha low life scum of the earth lives we could have her animals confiscated. or better yet before her animals were taken and placed in a safe environment i would like to see that cattle prod used on her in more than one place! Lord i hope she didnt reproduce and have offspring as henious and stupid as her!!
Jdog
Aug 14, 2013 at 9:54 am
Mark.You are right.In spite of some comments dogs are NOT hybrid wolves but descendants from wolves and very different.Cattle prods,shooting off guns, is cruel with wolf hybrids and dogs.People always seem to have the cruelest behaviors while feeling superior to animals.
Patrice Carter
Aug 14, 2013 at 4:59 pm
Well said!! Oh how I hate ignorance!!!
justin brown
Aug 14, 2013 at 8:14 pm
Mark Johnson not only are you dumb but are a bunny humper grow some balls if you teain a dog right you wont have to be afaid of them I have had a full blood wolf for a long time and he does just fine unless you aren’t supposed to be there if you train them to have respect they will but if you teach them like you teach dogs yes they will kill I am a proud REDNECK and there is nothing wrong with a hybrid dog, I breed them and I only adopt out to trained people by me on how to make yourself the alpha you must have control over the dog not the dog over you like you are
melanie
Aug 25, 2013 at 7:00 am
hey justin brown it’s spelled trained and no you do not have to be a redneck to train a dog my dad raised hunting dogs he was never mean to them you need to be trained let me guess you pee on everything to mark your turf didn’t bring your gun widga diga
peri
Aug 26, 2013 at 1:01 am
lol- your dad WAS a redneck…he wasn’t cruel to the dogs? how about the animals THEY were forced to kill…seems like you are as dumb as your dear ol dad 🙂
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:04 am
That was a horrible sentence Melanie… Absolutely no punctuation? You need to go back to school and then you can comment on other people… by the way ALL, the answer is really simple… If you have ever been close to a dog fight invlving large VISIOUS dogs, you would understand that even a cattle prod ( though it seems cruel) is better than the harm/pain inflicted in the fight… which could end in death… I don’t think anyone here is really into abusing their dog??? BTW, I too have been hit with a cattle prod… it hurts for a couple of seconds… that’s all… no harm done. John
Tori Clark
Aug 15, 2013 at 3:31 pm
Friend uses spray bottle with vinegar and water..they do not like that sprayed at their faces..!!
Tamera
Aug 25, 2013 at 9:33 am
thank you for actually commenting on the original article. this other BS is not exactly helpful… Some of us just want to learn how to break up a dogfight as safely as possible…
jules
Aug 26, 2013 at 12:18 pm
All I wanted to do was read the article and maybe get some dog owner feedback in the comments. What a waste of time scrolling through these comments to find something I might be able to use in the future.
Jeanne
Feb 20, 2014 at 5:56 pm
I am constantly dismayed by the animalistic tendencies that too many people show in comments like this place. Dog fights are very dangerous and I have been seriously injured a couple times over the years breaking them up. If it comes to a case of the animal or human being seriously injured (or killed), then any means possible to break up the fight is a better option. If a cattle prod works- then use it. I have a taser, and while it works well on humans, the dogs )when I grabbed it and tried to use it) didn’t even slow down. Sometimes, the barrel walk hasn’t gotten them to let each other go. You do what you have to do.
Sandra Snow Wolf
Aug 16, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Ignorance abounds. Wolves and dogs, mostly Northern breeds, have been mating in the wild for centuries. I do not agree with the cattle prod or shooting a gun in the ground (Seriously? Ever hear of something called ricochet?) but lets not let ignorance get out of hand.
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 12:21 am
Thanks for addressing the idea of an ill fated gunshot. I was going to get to that next.
jerry collins
Aug 16, 2013 at 6:27 pm
Mark , what about shelter wolfdogs, that someone has dumped? I have 2 that are as lovable as they get. I also have 2 dogs with them. only 2 of the four have to be kept separated. I have owned wolfdogs (rescues) for 15 years and they are the love of my life. Wolfdogs are in most cases far less aggressive than most breeds of dogs. Dogs kill about 30 people a year, and only 3 people have been killed by wolfdogs in 50 years. It has nothing to do with intelligence. I’m sure I have an I.Q. that would stagger your imagination.
Susan
Aug 25, 2013 at 2:58 pm
Jerry Collins, where do you get your info? Do some more research! You also need to consider what percentage of pets are actually hybrids before you start stating statistics. Just because there are less attacks from hybrids than some other breeds does not mean they are less dangerous. Could it simply mean there are less of them? Umm, Hell yeah! Also, you have to take into account that all reported dog bites are included in the statistics including those involving working police and protection dogs which include breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Labradors and yes even Pit Bull are sometimes used. These dogs are doing a job they are trained to do and not necessarily vicious on their own. Oh, and some of these dogs that are not “vicious” enough are trained to be aggressive by using cattle prods by bad trainers instead of taking the time to do it the right way or moving on to a different dog like should be done.
By the way here are the number of bites from Wolf Hybrids listed on a chart from laywers.com.
1982-2010 Fatal Dog Attacks and Maimings
Wolf hybrid
82-Bodily harm
68-Child Victims
4-Adult Victims
19-Deaths
46-Maimings
.003 Percent of dog population
Yes other dog breeds may have had more reported bites but if you figure in the percentage of those dogs in the pet population they are actually far less likely to bite someone than a hybrid. Not to mention the fact that in many states owning wolves or wolf hybrids is illegal so many people don’t even report bits unless they involve children or deaths. The only breed that will by far surpass the hybrids are Pit Bulls and you can bet that a lot of that is due to their upbringing and inbreeding to make dogs that uphold the Bad Boy image of being a dog fighter or a gangster.
ravenpines
Aug 17, 2013 at 12:41 pm
I agree….. you are a danger in so many way. How dare you use such tactics on those animals! Ive had wolfdogs… they are NOT dogs. They have their own set of rules. If you are unable to work with that, you should not be owning them. OMG, I cant believe what you wrote. I am furious right now!
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:08 am
you’re funny settle down now
Kim
Aug 17, 2013 at 3:39 pm
Thank you… this person is literally stupid… I feel bad for those dogs 🙁
opal
Aug 17, 2013 at 3:50 pm
@Mark Johnson, I agree with you ! I ran an exotic animal rescue for years and I ran across stupid people who thought it was “fun” to keep and breed these animals, PLEASE PLEASE do not keep wolf hybrids especially if you don’t know what you’re doing , a cattle prod? seriously you should be arrested for stupidity! @ Tasha Benson
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 6:53 pm
Mark, even though you make valid points, your use of the derogatory and name calling cancels out you being taken seriously by the person you are addressing. No one will think about a message given in a verbal attack. Many understand what you are saying and agree.
Nick
Aug 18, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Why does she have to be a redneck??? Like I said previously to someone else, she could just as easily be from the city. You don’t HAVE to live on a farm, in the country, or ‘hick towns’ to be able to buy guns and cattle prods.
Beau
Aug 18, 2013 at 5:33 pm
Your concerns about the welfare of wolves and the cross-breeding of them with domestic dogs is a valid concern, but when you attack someone personally in a rude manner such as you used in your comment, you remove all credibility and merit to your observations and convictions. You become the object of ridicule and any point made by you is quickly dismissed. Im sorry you are enveloped in such a disparaging cloud of intolerance for your fellow man and wish for you some sunshine and blue sky. As far as how you came to the assumption the writer was a redneck is beyond my intelligence, so I will leave that investigative skill up to you and others that posses the higher intelligence level that us rednecks.
P.S. Us rednecks aint a breedin, we is a inbreedin.
peri
Aug 26, 2013 at 1:08 am
shut up- you redneck sympathizer.
maddaxe981
Aug 20, 2013 at 12:28 am
I agree with mark on some points. I really hate the redneck remark. What do you have a poodle in your high rise apartment? get real evry walk of life has horrible people. I think you sir are ignorant. For this I would love to use a cattle prod on you. Well have a great mark.
Athena
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:36 pm
OMG. I totally agree. A cattle prod?!?!? Its a CATTLE prod! Not a DOG prod! Cattle are HUGE compared to a dog. WTF?!? Ignorant people….
Woman Watching Sanders
Aug 25, 2013 at 8:54 pm
we have re-home several dogs and had 4 abused dogs, elder ones, huskies and labs, please people turn on your water hose works for dogs and cats the shock of water diverts their attention and a good bath at the same time.
Heather
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:40 pm
Well said wolf abuser is a dick give me your torture object and I will gladly use it on you
Anna
Aug 20, 2013 at 4:51 pm
I agree with the fact that you should never bred a wild animal like a wolf with a domestic dog but the redneck comment is going a little to far. I happen to be from the GREAT State of Georgia and a redneck and I DO NOT INTERBREED ANIMALS!!!!! So next time you decide to make a comment like that check your brain first because it could insult someone. Thank you very much!
David K
Aug 20, 2013 at 7:27 pm
mark, It is so wonderful to know that you know everything and are not extremely ignorant yourself. You are assuming that he lives in a rural neighborhood and that he is a redneck. Did you know that all dog originated from the wolf? No I didn’t think so. He also said that he “raised” them. That would imply to me that he no longer does so. And you are so correct that it would be sooo much better for the animals to keep fighting and not use the cattle prod to stop it. I guess you would break up a fight by softly telling them to go to their rooms and to think about what they just did.
I see that bob and pat know how the real wold works as well.
Toninoet
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:36 am
Not all dogs originate from wolves; some are messed up combinations with foxes. Everyone that feels it is necessary to say, “all dogs descend form wolves” throw that through a search engine. The interwebz is a great thing; All this knowledge at our finger tips. Also, another reason that statement is wrong look into the breed Norwegian Elk Hound – more specifically, look into their lineage.
Sorry, I was getting sick of seeing that statement.
All I am trying to figure out is, has anyone actually used the method in the article? Is it worth attempting?
resqk9s
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:48 am
Yes! It works. I have had to use it many times at a rescue shelter. Spraying water doesn’t always work to distract two dogs really going at it… but this always did.
Mandi
Feb 21, 2014 at 11:10 am
THANK YOU! I have to talk to people constantly about dog behavior and always get the alpha CRAP. Dogs are NOT wolves and wolves are NOT dogs, they are very similar in genetics so that they can interbreed but dogs evolved alongside humans and no longer think or act like wolves. Also I’ve read about the evolution from foxes and I believe some of them are even considered related to coyotes. Feral dog packs do not act the same as a wolf pack. They are not pets and should never be.
Yes the wheelbarrow method works very well, I’ve used it a couple of times, it is much harder to separate fights when you are alone, but sometimes hoses do work unless the dogs are completely focused on each other.
Dorie
Aug 20, 2013 at 10:01 pm
So true..every word.
Ann
Aug 21, 2013 at 6:14 am
Agreed. Why breed hybrid wolf dogs. Its cruel to use cattle prods even on cattle.
Darlene luna
Aug 22, 2013 at 11:34 pm
Not all hybrid wolves are bad. I know of 2 that are the most loving, sweet ” dogs” ever! They were loyal pets & they were very good with little children. The kid pulled on then & climbed on them & they would just lay back & let it happen.
Dan
Aug 24, 2013 at 8:44 pm
Totally agreed.
Lenora KIng
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:13 pm
humans are what’s wrong with the animal kingdom…good lord. cattle prods, shooting guns into the ground, wth!!!
lbowbeer
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:40 pm
This is terrible. what kind of asshole would raise wolves in the first place and then use a cattle prod?
Marie Cole
Aug 25, 2013 at 7:37 am
First stupid thing….Raising wolves. Second Stupid thing….a cattle prod. Third stupid thing…. “Rednecks shouldn’t Breed” . There was no need for that. You seemed somewhat intelligent until that.
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:10 am
Right… Redneck should breed!
Debby Jones
Aug 25, 2013 at 11:52 am
I agree…. that sounds awful and you kind of give your ignorance away with your spelling of “alfa”. LOL Thanks for the chuckle after horrifying me with the cattle prod thing. For your information, “alfa” is spelled ALPHA!
Deb
Aug 26, 2013 at 11:47 am
AMEN Mark Johnson!
Eleanor
Aug 27, 2013 at 7:46 pm
WHAT A HORRIBLE, RUDE, MEAN COMMENT. YOU ARE ALSO A BIGOT. WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE, CALLING SOMEONE A “REDNECK”? DO YOU THINK YOU ARE BETTER? YES, YOU DO, YOU THINK YOU ARE BETTER THAN SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE A “REDNECK”, BUT YOU SHOW YOUR INFERIORITY WITH YOUR IGNORANCE. LOOK PAL, I GRADUATED WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE AND AM A PROFESSIONAL THERAPIST. BUT ALL OF THAT MEANS NOTHING WITHOUT SOME CLASS AND INTELLIGENCE, AND YOU HAVE NEITHER. THE WOMAN THAT MADE THE POST ABOUT THE CATTLE PROD IS DOING WHAT IS NECESSARY TO BREAK UP A DOG FIGHT. THERE ARE DIFFERENT WAYS TO DO JUST THAT, AND YOU ARE A CLOD TO THINK YOU HAVE THE ONLY WAY TO DO IT. MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND TRY TO STOP BEING A JERK. SPARE THE REST OF US. AND HOW WOULD YOU LIKE IT IF I SAID I HOPE YOU ARE EATEN BY A BEAR TOMORROW. I WON’T SAY THAT, BECAUSE THAT WOULD BE RUDE, CRUEL, AND RIDICULOUSLY OVERSTATED. NOW YOU KNOW HOW YOU CAME OFF.
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:11 am
Wow Eleanor… are you mad?
linda cunningham
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:31 am
i agree with you elanor and i am a san diego girl… finance manger. i have 3 dogs.. chow rescue, newfie, and aussie. when they get into terrible fights with each other occasionally… i have tried everything and i was recently put in the hospital for such a serious bite to the face. (for 4 days). i am considering any solution at this point. i have done everything.. training too. my chow mix is 14 now and is the root of the problem but he is still a family member…. i empathize with all dog owners but i cannot be one to judge and there is certainly nothing wrong about being country folk… i am glad you wrote your comment.
Lisa
Feb 22, 2014 at 2:42 am
Linda-I deeply love animals, too, and I’ve had to bring two pets to a rescue shelter in my life and it was absolutely heartbreaking. However, if I had dogs that I had to keep separated because of fighting I wouldn’t feel that the dogs would always be safe. They wouldn’t be able to live together. I’m not sure what I’d do but I’d have to do something to permanently keep them apart. As for a 14 y/o Chow who has a fighting problem so bad that he disfigured me and put me in the hospital? He would be put down in the most loving way I could think of at my vets with me by his side. He could attack anyone if he attacks his owner, who he could have blinded. What if he ends up attacking someone else? I couldn’t live with myself. At his age he could have dementia or a number of things but also at his age he won’t improve but could get worse. Yes, he’s a family member, but if a human family member physically attacked me he’d have to go also. You’ve gone way too far keeping that dog around people and it sounds like you’ve been lucky so far, but it’s just irresponsible keeping a dog who has already attacked and maimed you.
Jeff
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:45 am
Thanks Eleanor…if I ever need a therapist, I will NOT LOOK YOU UP! Get some anger management help yourself, you redneck!
Steve
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:00 am
STFU
joan
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:50 am
I agree with everything you said Mark.
Dirk R
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:53 am
amen Mark. God-use a cattle prod heh heh heh…
Charlie
Feb 20, 2014 at 12:05 pm
“shooting a gun to the ground” ??? in the middle a frenzy ? get out a gun ? really bad idea …
Carole
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:02 pm
I agree the use of a cattle prod is wrong and disgusting, but why does Mark presume the woman is a so called “Redneck”. I am from the South ,so Mark would automatically put me in that class of people. I guarantee you “Rednecks” love their animals and do not mistreat them any more than “Yankees” or any other group of people. Wonder what hateful name Mark would be identified as being. Not a very smart group I am sure. Wonder if he would use the cattle prod too.
Nancy Haas III
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:26 pm
Because she uses a cattle prod…That’s why she’s a ‘redneck’ and I should know since I’m from Texas. Cattle prods are not for dogs…(at least the four legged kind)…
Nancy Haas III
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:23 pm
Right on the money Mark Johnson!
Karen H
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:30 pm
Way to go. Someone needs to educate these ignorant people!Could not have said it better myself!
J Long
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:38 pm
You stick a cattle prob INTO their mouths?? That seems horribly cruel to me!!! I don’t care of it DOES work!!! If someone did that to MY dog, they’d find themselves with a prod in THEIR mouth!!!
shaina
Feb 20, 2014 at 5:36 pm
too right you are!
jcp
Feb 20, 2014 at 5:49 pm
WELL SAID!!!
Rick
Feb 20, 2014 at 8:08 pm
Amen. The cattle prod girl needs to be in jail.
Jennifer Wachter
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:16 pm
You are right. This prson should be no where around an animal. It is abuse.
Mogilb
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:27 pm
I agreed with everything you said, until you went stupid and
made the nasty comment about rednecks! You could have gone
all day without saying that!!!
Sandy
Feb 21, 2014 at 11:51 am
I agree with Mark Johnson. There is no cure for CUREL STUPID people unfortunately. I wish I could use a cattle prod on them but I’d get thrown in jail for using it on a “so called” human. I think many people that mistreat animals grew up in a household that mistreated animal. Have you ever heard someone say, “We have always done it that way”. I think those people see their pets more as an “object”.
This brings up my thoughts regarding animal welfare. Pet over population is like the U.S. deficit, the numbers are to staggering to comprehend. Many people INSIST on breeding their animals just because they CAN ! People that do not believe in SPAYING or NEUTERING or have not even considered the thought should have to pay for the results of their decision.
I do not have the answer but I am giving it a lot of thought, I hope you are too. PLEASE, PLEASES, PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER.
Regina Whitman
Feb 25, 2014 at 8:31 pm
Humans need to learn how NOT to interfere with wild animals…key word “learn”-so it may be hard for a misguided person like you to get it.
Elaine
Mar 27, 2014 at 5:42 pm
this is the most stupid, inhumane thing I have ever heard and I am a professional trainer!
Kay Morgan
Feb 25, 2013 at 1:13 pm
sounds pretty humane to me. cattle prods and guns
Juli
Feb 28, 2013 at 3:36 pm
Why in the name of all that’s sane would you raise hybrid wolves? Are you nuts or just that egotistical? Does it make you feel all bad-ass? Your behavior is irresponsible, selfish & incredibly dangerous. I pray for these poor animals that they end up in a sanctuary that is trained & equipped to care for them properly and that your self centered actions do *not* end in tragedy.
“If you have men who will exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men.”
~St. Francis of Assisi
“All beings tremble before violence. All fear death. All love life.”
~~Buddha
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
~~~ Mahatma Gandhi
Lee
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:30 pm
I hope your pug rips your finger off.
Twila Pritchett
Aug 17, 2013 at 12:49 am
I know of some people who broke up their dog fight by using their water hose, worked every time, they hate being sprayed and it cooled them down, but best of all, it got their attention and they stopped fighting–way more HUMANE!
lbowbeer
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:41 pm
agree
Redneck Chick
Aug 25, 2013 at 10:23 am
Well, in reading all the comments here, I have found most are pathetic. Rednecks shouldn’t breed???? Really???? I must laugh at how stupid this conversation has become. Back to the subject of breaking up a dog fight, I have found in breaking up dog fights (with any breed, and yes, ALL dogs have wolf ancestors)a water hose works best. Start spraying the fighters in the face (with water, no harm done) and it gets their attention off the other fighter. The K-9’s hate it and WILL stop fighting.
Debby Jones
Aug 25, 2013 at 11:54 am
then why the cattle prod??
J Long
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:42 pm
The idea of the information was in case you were not neaar a flipping water hose! Pay attention! We’re gonna have a test later..and stop name-calling!
J Long
Feb 20, 2014 at 2:45 pm
typo…near, not neaar
linda
Aug 17, 2013 at 11:45 am
i like what you have to say and to the Alpha who cant even spell the word correctly. obviously should be prodded in the mouth like the poor animals she prods, i hope they catch her mistreating and abusing her animals. they may fear the prod but not you dumb ass – i have a feeling the hybrids will get her one day. hope its really soon
LAURA LISHNESS
Aug 18, 2013 at 3:46 pm
well said, Juli! Thank you! 🙂
Candy Copeland
Aug 18, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Can we get back on topic now? I think she has been verbally beat enough .
My experience with Pit Bulls is that they lock on and don’t want to release. My favorite way to stop a fight , if its near by and handy is WATER. Grabbing the garden hose or even a pan of water and hit them in the face with it, breaks them up every time. Probably because they can’t breath when the water hits their noses. Works great and after they break it up you use the water hose to keep them apart. Works quite well.
Candy
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:29 am
Thank you, Candy C. for hitting the nail on the head. Most of the comments following the initial one are highly inappropriate. Forums like this serve two main purposes. First, to share information, and second, to be able to share information without fear of condescending remarks, not for steam venting. There isn’t ONE thing said here that couldn’t have been said in a more tactful way. If you want your own ideas (the legitimate ones) to be read and taken with any credibility, don’t make yourself out to be someone who is just here to rag on everyone else for the sake of feeling good and not contribute problem solving answers to the problem.
Redneck Chick
Aug 25, 2013 at 10:29 am
Well said Carol. Thank you.
Tamera
Aug 25, 2013 at 9:36 am
thank you!!!!
Toni
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:41 am
It says in the beginning “if you don’t have water handy.”
Lindzv
Aug 13, 2013 at 12:43 pm
W…T…. F???
marianne
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:53 pm
Why the hell would you be raising hybrid wolves!!? You shouldn’t be raising anything .You’re an abuser. Bloody hick!
Pam Brafdley
Aug 13, 2013 at 8:47 pm
Could not have put it better .
Pam Brafdley
Aug 13, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Spelt Bradley .
P T Scott
Aug 13, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Sometimes people don’t realize from their comments, but big dogs can & do great damage to each other ending sometimes in death! As a dog owner since I could crawl (I have pictures) & have had Pomeranians, schnauzers, Dobermans & Rottweiler’s, you do what you have to do to keep them and yourself safe. I had my husband shock me with my cattle prod, so I would know exactly what my dogs would feel. It didn’t hurt me but it is shocking. Sort of like the old buzzer in the hand trick. It emits a sound and the dogs calm down immediately. I mainly use it to walk my dogs & keep other loose dogs at bay. Oh and we got the cattle prod after my two 130# + male Rotties tied up & I got to go the hospital. Good thing my Beauty Pageant Days were behind me!(I have pictures of that also!!) Safety first and that means my dogs, then me. ()””()
Danielle Davis
Aug 14, 2013 at 5:11 pm
You use a cattle prod to WALK your dogs?! Not to break up fights, but to WALK the dogs? Yeah, having pictures of owning dogs since you can crawl does NOT make you a good dog owner. Needing a freaking cattle prod to WALK a dog, however, is fairly good evidence of being a sadist.
lbowbeer
Aug 24, 2013 at 9:43 pm
idiot
donna
Aug 14, 2013 at 7:18 pm
People do not realize what a large dog or wolf can do. Also it seems to me that people like to talk down to others,trying to hurt them. Humanity or lack thereof these days makes me sad. You can not like an idea or action and state that without being cruel and insulting. A lot of people these days are raising wolfs for a lot of reasons and safety comes ist. I have small dogs and a cattle prod would be horrible in that case, but wolves are hugh and it was not being stuck up their butts. She was shocked too. If it was that bad she would not have done that.
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:17 am
Agreed Donna…
Mandi
Feb 21, 2014 at 11:17 am
Unless you are a wildlife expert trained an licensed to handle non domesticated animals you should not be breeding or owning wolves. They are NOT dogs, and that is completely irresponsible.
If you own a large dog and do not know how to train your dogs, then you also should not own dogs. You should never need to abuse your dog to get them to do what you ask.
Z Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:17 am
Did you have your husband put the cattle prod in your mouth???? It conducts a lot more electricity when there is moisture. Jesus, did you people take science class??? Dumb ass people!!!
Sheilah
Aug 17, 2013 at 7:51 am
Those big dogs can kill an unwitting owner or family member too who tries to break up their fights. Happened to a little girl up here in Anchorage who tried to break up her family’s position jockeying pitbulls. Killed her dead in about 2 bites. I don’t blame the dogs. I blame the owners. #1 owning more than 1 bull anything the same gender. #2 having 4 aggressive pitbulls when one is more watchdog than anyone really needs unless they’re messing with gangs. #3. Leaving a new BABYSITTER, alone with those 4 grown pitbulls, and 5 children. As if a pack of pitbulls are going to even listen to a stranger HELLO! You separate the dogs, and put them in crates when someone is in the home minding your children. Even a seasoned dog handler/trainer would be more than challenged. PEOPLE FIND THEMSELVES IN HEART WRENCHING ORDEALS WHEN THEY DON’T THINK. prevention is the best course of action….KNOW THE BREED YOU OWN!!!!!! KNOW AND TRAIN WELL, THE DOG YOU OWN or don’t own a dog! ANY DOG BIG OR SMALL. AND DON’T OWN MORE DOG OR DOGS THAN YOU CAN HANDLE!
mary
Feb 21, 2014 at 11:49 pm
I so agree with you Sheilah,I own three old english bulldogs two female and one male,they came from two different litters same mother and father 13 months apart,Molly is a little over 2 years old and the pups a little over a year. Well the two females cannot even be out of their crates at the same time as they will kill each other so I rotate them all day long. All my dogs are great with humans and cats. I thought about giving the younger one away to a good home, but I love her so much and she is so loving to me, so I just do what I have to do to keep us all safe.
mary
Feb 22, 2014 at 12:09 am
My two bullies have been in a few fights, i have ran to the kitchen and grabbed a pot and a metal spoon and banged the hell out of it and then we pulled them apart by there back legs. No real damage was done to either of them but I had to react fast,now I don’t even give them the chance. They have muzzles for outside walking,I walk them one at a time as they are all very strong dogs.By the way when the females fought my male would just watch,never try to get involved,he is just a big marshmallow.
Diego
Aug 22, 2013 at 11:32 pm
I commend those that are able to voice their opinion while refraining from verbal abuse.
Tasha tried to show us what worked for her and was heavily insulted.
When large dogs are fighting, especially when they are one of the fighting breeds, is is no easy task to handle. Lips and ears are torn apart, legs are broken and death is also not uncommon. Once I witnessed how a mutt attacked a normally peaceful fighting dog and the latter got mean with the aggressor. We tried to let him go for over 20 minutes, even lifting him on his hind legs and turning around. He would not let go and carried the other dog in his jaws. The mutt was being mauled! We got desperate. It wasn’t until we saw a pool and decided to invade the property and dip the fighting dog’s head beneath the water for over a minute that he let the other dog go. Even though I am an animal lover and animal right’s activist, has a cattle rod been available, we would have used it to save the mutt from what seemed a cruel death. By the way, the mutt had his hind leg crushed, broken in several places. He lived but limped forever.
As to breeding wolf hybrids go… our ancestors bred wolves and that is how we got our pooches. The reason for the breeding were not mentioned but it could have had a good purpose, couldn´t it?
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:22 am
Best comment yet Diego… great example too… I think many people have just not experience a dog fight with a powerful dog… a cattle prod is nothing but a very temporary shock (it does no physical harm, I have been hit by one)… if it can stop the fight, use it… John
Vicki
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:19 pm
My god, how cruel can you be? The world doesn’t need “hybrid wolves” Using a cattle prod on a cow is cruel, even crueler on a dog. You are the LAST person who needs to be breeding ANYTHING. I just pray you do not have any children.
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:37 am
I very recently heard that hybrid wolves are being bred under controlled conditions. I can not remember who presented the report, or even if it was on TV or in something I read. But I didn’t question the source because at the time, I realized it was a reliable source. If I’m wrong, don’t be afraid to correct me, but please be nice.
Joyce Berman
Aug 13, 2013 at 2:26 pm
A lot of people have dogs that are part-wolf, and some breeds are still closer to that link. Pretty much any dog can get into a fight. The point is to stop it before one dog is fatally or seriously injured. How do you know that person is a redneck? Half-wolf dogs were available in Sacramento, CA when I lived there. Some working breeds aren’t that far from their wolf heritage. Which is better – letting the dogs (or part-wolves) fight to the death or doing something that inflicts a temporary shock. Shooting off a gun is a good idea. Would probably get their attention. I know people who’ve done that to scare away bears and mountain lions from their front doors or backyards. We aren’t all city-living yuppies you know.
jga
Aug 14, 2013 at 3:26 pm
I had a rescued wolf hybrid, and her pups until they were old enough to be rehomed. Whether a wolf or a dog, using a cattle prod on it is abuse, and shooting a gun off around it is stupidly dangerous. Which is better? How about doing what the article says? Wow… please, remove yourself from the gene pool.
Tanya
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:49 pm
In continuation of my comment below…
Putting aside the fact that you’re irresponsible and breeding wolf hybrids to begin with, then choosing to inhumanely stick a cattle prod in the dogs’ mouths, you should NEVER pull ANY canine by it’s tail…EVER!! Their tail is a functioning part of their spine, assists with their maneuvering and balance, and contains countless nerves. When broken, which will occur if pulled too hard, it’s very painful to the dog. It’s obvious, though, that inflicting intentional pain on your animals is something that you have zero qualms in doing. I truly feel for your “pack”. They don’t respect you as “alfa” (it’s spelled alPHa)…they FEAR you! I don’t generally call people names, but you’re an idiot!
Tanya
Aug 13, 2013 at 3:51 pm
Actually, that would be my PREVIOUS comment in response to mark johnson’s excellent comment.
Alice
Aug 13, 2013 at 7:09 pm
ALFA..make that IDIOT. One day those animals will get the best of you.. that is not the bad part. The bad part is the world will blame the animals.. sad sad sad.
Maria West
Aug 13, 2013 at 7:21 pm
RIGHT ON MARK !!! HOPEFULLY THE BULLET BOUNCES BACK & HITS HER.
John
Oct 18, 2013 at 2:23 am
Or you!
Sheila Doucette
Aug 13, 2013 at 9:16 pm
You are one sick mf.
Katie
Aug 14, 2013 at 10:36 am
Congrats on successful trolling.
For the life of me I don’t understand why people love purposely upsetting others. Unless they are about 13 years old and then it’s just a maturity issue.
Prolly some adult guy, sitting in his mom’s basement, laughing his butt off. Woo hoo.
michellem
Aug 14, 2013 at 3:09 pm
tasha benson is a complete idiot. wow.
CHARLENE
Aug 14, 2013 at 4:03 pm
There is something wrong with you. I hope and pray that they take those poor creatures from you NOW.
Z Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 4:10 am
You are a cruel person!!!! I hope someone uses a cattle prod on your ass someday!!! I seriously hope someone knows who you are and calls the police on you!!
gina young
Aug 15, 2013 at 10:23 am
No one should listen to you and your advice. Your an ego driven idiot. You have no business giving any advice,Alpha my ass.
Cindy Smith
Aug 15, 2013 at 11:11 am
Greetings ! A wolf belongs in the wild. That is how GOD intended them to be. They should not be inbred for your own personal reasons. A cattle prod is a very harsh method of correction. I work very closely with pitbulls. I currently own two. They know I am the “Pack Leader”, not because I use harsh methods to train them. It is all about a quiet balance of firmness, and gentleness. I have never struck one of my dogs ever. I don’t believe that is the way to earn their trust. My two girls can go anywhere, around all kinds of people and dogs. They are the perfect pair. I also foster and work very closely with a local rescue. My girls mentor the fosters when they come and they allow them to be integrated into the “Pack”. If you are actually breeding a wild species, and using these cruel methods to obtain control over them, it will not work. Maybe it seems like it, but I will tell you they will eventually turn on you. You should be cited for animal cruelty. I think you need to seek professional help, when learning how to train a dog. And for yourself as well.
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 11:52 am
bravo
Kim Kuenlen
Aug 16, 2013 at 4:38 pm
Wish you wouldn’t RAISE HYBRID WOLVES! There are thousands in shelters throughout this country that are being put down. How about rescuing them instead?
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 11:58 am
DO YOU WANT THIS PERSON RESCUING ANY ANIMAL?
christie
Aug 16, 2013 at 6:07 pm
ALFA? You’re ALFA? No, you’re ignorant. Your dogs are smarter than you are.
angela
Aug 16, 2013 at 10:31 pm
why do you raise hybrid wolves? there are enough animals in shelters every day the die becasue they are dumped. Wolves are wild animals. NO need to breed them. Do the world of dogs a favor and stop it now. So sad to have to use up a gun to break up a dog fight. And a cattle prod?! What are you doing using a cattle prod on dogs and wolves? Don’t try to tell me it is just ato break up fights. I won’t believe that for aminute. You are obviously a back yard breeder and have no business raising hybrids. Makes me sick to my stomach. I feel bad for the dogs and the wolves. I hope someone shuts you down.
linda
Aug 17, 2013 at 4:25 am
I have never heard such blatant cruelty being openly admitted in my life. You should not be owning, never mind breeding such dogs as Hybrid wolves. A cattle prod? In the mouth no less and followed by a “lol”. You are one disgusting vile creature that deserves to get bitten if that is how you’re going to treat them.
You are ignorant not “alpha”, an “alpha” would need neither a cattle prod nor a gun. The use of either of those items shows nothing but lazy ignorance and to be proud that a dog would run and hide from you is…. well… beyond words.
I imagine you are one of “those” people who feel their status is elevated by the mention of raising Hybrid wolves when in fact I also imagine that you have no knowledge or experience of wolves and how they interact – YOU PROBABLY CAUSE THE SODDING FIGHTS!
Susan S
Aug 17, 2013 at 6:30 am
Moron!
RubyB
Aug 17, 2013 at 5:49 pm
OF course they bit you after you pulled their tails–That HURTS. It does not appear, from your comments that you learned anything from this article. I feel very sorry for you wolf dogs.
Susan White
Aug 17, 2013 at 5:58 pm
You have got to be kidding me. You are either stupid or just plan inhumane. You should not have dogs.
Todd R
Aug 17, 2013 at 6:29 pm
Are you kidding me? A Cattle Prod! Don’t use anything on your Dogs that you would not use on yourself. Can I be the one the tests the Cattle Prod on you FOR A WHILE!
As far as the issue of Hybrid Wolf/Dogs, What are your reasons for having this animal? To Be Cool and have an Exotic Pet? Errrr, Wrong Answer. To create a new breed of domesticated dog? Doubt it. Then you would not be so quick to call it a Hybrid, you would call it the breed name you are trying to create. Whether there is a breed of dog in the lineage it is still a Wild Animal. You have erased the domestication by breeding with a Wild Animal and thus you have created an extremely unpredictable animal. You can say all you want how gentle and wonderful YOUR hybrid is but in the creation of your wonderful hybrid there are more created that are NOT. Are all dogs sweet and loving? Nope but we are looking at percentages and there is a wide difference in the aggressive domesticated dog population and the hybrid dog population and do we really need another breed of pet???? Do we need more supposed pets when there are hundreds of thousands of Dogs and Cats in kill shelters in the US? Most current dog breeds were created for a particular working purpose. What is that purpose of the hybrid? Lets let our wild animals be wild animals and the domesticated animals be what they are, pets and companions. Here is a very good both sided look at hybrids. Read it and see if you have a hybrid for the right reasons and what is best for this animal. nal.usda.gov/awic/newsletters/v5n4/5n4wille.htm#toc8
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 1:41 am
Todd, I agree that the adoptable pets should ALWAYS be adopted over breeding. But some people, for whatever reason, want to breed. It can’t be stopped. Why not follow your idea with some great reasons for adopting over breeding if you really want to save the “unwanted” dogs.
Linda Guffin
Aug 17, 2013 at 6:45 pm
Shooting off a gun to the ground is not as safe as one would like to believe. Recently a little boy in Texas lost his life when a law officer fired a gun towards the ground to kill a snake. Bullets do ricochet. Of course, first consideration is for humans to be safe. Let me add emphasis to my last statement….. humans be safe!!!!!!!!
Brad
Aug 19, 2013 at 1:31 pm
No matter what anyone says about shouldn’t raise Hy-bred Wolves, do a search our house dogs all came first by someone long ago taking in a wild dog more likely a Wolve that’s each’s own opinion fully respected . But the “cattle prod and gun” wow really that’s animal abuse no matter what. And I have a neighbor w/ a 50% Husky /50% Wolve mix and he is one of the most loveable dogs around my neighborhood. Putting the owner down may not be right but finding out where they live and having all their animals taking away would be best.
CD
Aug 19, 2013 at 3:45 pm
What an ignoramus. You don’t deserve the privilege of owning animals. In fact… I’m not convinced you should be allowed out amongst other humans let alone dogs. Predators like you should be kept behind locked doors in shackles and with muzzles, sterilized and lobotomised.
Joanne Thompson
Aug 19, 2013 at 11:40 pm
Please stop raising hybrid wolves. Most of them end up abandoned and the shelters will not adopt them. They are killed. I support a sanctuary who takes them in, and they cannot take all of them. You are creating a huge problem. Please stop doing this. You are making money off the suffering and killing of the animals you breed.
Ethan
Aug 20, 2013 at 2:42 am
What a fool. Raising hybrids for what reason?! And then using electric shocks on them to terrify them. It sounds like you will be building up more problems.
Mr. Dube
Aug 20, 2013 at 8:46 am
you should be left in the wilderness to the wolves, ANYONE that thinks putting a cattle prod into a creature’s mouth and zapping them into submission should have a lobotomy and a full psychiatric exam done in a federal facility.
The fact that you can joke and laugh about shooting a gun off at the ground, potentially causing a ricochet and striking one of your companions , OR if we all get really lucky,,,, maybe your constant mindless shooting at the ground will lead you to be struck with a stray round ; thus saving us from ever having to read any more insane posts from people like you ‘ tasha’ with double digit I Q’s .
That is all…
Judy
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:23 pm
Cattle prod? Please … get rid of all animals at once!! You should be ashamed of yourself. Be very ashamed.
cjrdallas1
Aug 20, 2013 at 1:45 pm
you are a maggot who should not be allowed to be near animals. i hope you do not own any.
Victoria Spenser
Aug 20, 2013 at 9:45 pm
You really must be a moron. A cattle prod, REALLY?????? Get a life you abuser.
mary
Aug 20, 2013 at 10:17 pm
You are insane and irrational. First off, you should not be raising these animals, and secondly, you should not have weapons. You are insane and uneducated – the worst of both worlds.
Cheryl
Aug 23, 2013 at 8:54 am
T Benson,
I would hope after you’re reading the following comments regarding YOUR training methods you will change gears and seek professional help in training your “dogs”! You are obviously in this for the money and are not helping the over population Rescue Organizations are working so hard to minimize. Animal abuse runs rampant in this country and you should be ashamed of yourself for using these methods!! Linda’s comment below pretty much sums it up!!! Do everyone a favor and get a real job!
Mindy R.
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:13 pm
omg..please tell me I did not just read this..a cattle prod? I am too stunned and upset to even comment rationally.
Linda
Aug 24, 2013 at 10:33 pm
I agree with the cattle prog if you have BIG dogs you care about its not animal abuse its keeping them from hurting each other
Carol Gibbs
Aug 25, 2013 at 2:01 am
To those who seem to want to do nothing than to hurt and attack Tasha (or anyone else) over their views – whether your views are right or wrong, your solutions and ideas hold NO credibility when you attack people the way you’ve attacked this her personally. Disagree with, or “attack” a person’s ideas on something, anything if you must, but don’t attack the person, malign or put down their ideas. Yours will not be taken seriously, that is if you include any real ideas or solutions to the problem.
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 12:04 pm
YOU ARE NOT TALKING ABOUT AN IDEA,THESE ARE LIVING!!!!!
Nikki DesChamps
Aug 26, 2013 at 12:57 am
Hilarious! Thanks!
Ronnyjoejimbob
Aug 27, 2013 at 1:41 am
A cattle prod works fine and gets the respect it needs. Maybe the world wouldn’t be such a messed up place if there was a bit more discipline in it. For all those bleeding hearts out there, animals need to be kept in there spot to behave properly. Too many attacks on humans. When I go for a walk, I carry a big stick with a sharpened metal point and I have had to fend myself more than once against a big dog who is running loose with no owner attending it. After all …. he’s just a big baby. Maybe to the owner he is, but to a stranger he is not. I can say proudly that I have sued a dog owner for a six figured sum as well and now insurance companies will not insure you dumb owners for now controlling their dogs. Next time it will be the owners property I receive and I look forward to getting it from some bleeding heart dumby head.
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 12:05 pm
PIG
Mike Carter
Aug 27, 2013 at 10:18 am
you shouldn’t have the right to even look at a dog. I hope you haven’t got children. You shouldn’t be allowed to have them either.
jean
Aug 28, 2013 at 11:47 am
moron
Sarah J
Aug 29, 2013 at 4:58 am
I have a small dog and we go on big forest walks and in 8 years have been attacked by big dogs 5 times, not really much considering we are out every day 365 days a year, the attacks have all been totally unprovoked.
She is my 1st dog and I’m no dog expert but now I look out for a body language and breed as there is definitely a type that is more likely to attack. If I spot one of these I change direction, it’s no difference to us whether we walk clockwise or anti clockwise. If this fails I have a rape alarm which I’d press if a dog charges us, but if the dog attacked I now carry ground white pepper which I’d use as a last resort to break up and get away.
Thankfully the preventative measures have so far worked a treat
Fran Amoroso
Sep 10, 2013 at 5:56 am
You’re an idiot. I would hope that you don’t have children of your own.
Fran Amoroso
Sep 10, 2013 at 5:58 am
I would hope that you don’t have children of your own.
Peg
Sep 30, 2013 at 10:55 am
Cattleprod? Are you nuts? That jolt could cause serious problems for a dog,
like congestive heart failure and fluid build up in the lungs. Good grief.
Carol
Dec 8, 2013 at 9:40 am
Tisha, Mark is 100% right. I hope by now you have no animals. You have no business having ANY if you think it is cute that you can hurt them into fearing you. One day one is going to turn on you and you will be dead. And Alpha is spelled with a “ph” not an “F”
Karine
Feb 20, 2014 at 9:44 am
It is stupid to raus wolves they are belong to run free and its a well known gact that its nearly impossible to domesticate wolves. Using a cattle prod ? I’d like to use one on you for your stupidity !
gina
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:34 am
Good God, did you actually say ypu stick a cattle prod in an animals mouth? AND that youre breeding animals while we kill 9.6 million a year in shelters alone? Are you retarded? Are your parents cousins? That is insanely cruel. Its CLEAR animal abuse. The cattle prod is horrific torture to a giant cow, I cannot imagine the pain, fear and heart damage it does to a dog. Please stick that prod up your own ass until you get some sense, some compassion and some education.
Jeff
Feb 20, 2014 at 10:43 am
“Tasha” I hope is kidding just to fire everyone up. Or she’s a sick sadist who should not be allowed out of her trailer.
sheri
Feb 20, 2014 at 1:03 pm
Tasha, I am thoroughly disgusted with you. People like you should never have any animals. My heart hurts for the animals that have had the unfortunate experience of coming into contact with you. I have faith there is a special place in hell for you and all the other people who do not respect animals.
kim
Feb 20, 2014 at 1:57 pm
Never shoot a gun at the ground because it can riquette and the bullet hit you or someone else.
Michael
Feb 20, 2014 at 5:51 pm
You are NOT an Alfa (sic) you are a coward that does not deserve to own any pet! I hope these dogs are siezed from you and your coward parten/spouse. People like you make me sick.
idon'tdostupid
Feb 20, 2014 at 11:45 pm
how to prevent a dog fight is simply OWNERS OF ALL DOGS BE RESPONSIBLE! braking up fights is all well and good.. but that doesn’t address the REAL problem. owners letting their UNTRAINED dogs OFFLEASH to do the deed to begin with
if you want to walk your dog OFFLEASH.. then make absolutely SURE you ave COMPLETE control over your dog,. if you don’t have your dogs immediate attention from calling him then he/she should be ON a leash with no chance of running loose and being trouble. too many dumb fucks do the oh my dog can go offleash and wind up with vet bills or worse because THEIR dog was out of control. I keep MY girl with me and make sure she doesn’t have negative reactions to tohers arpund her because I AM a responsible owner who gives a shit and have broken up many a dog fight without these techniques listed. so. don’t put TOO much faith in whats here guys. this method doesn’t ALWAYS work
let those of us ( myself included in this because i’ve been doing stuff like this for years) handle the details on breaking up the fights and make absolutely sure that your dog is well attached to you. THEN nothing like that could happen.
even though i have a pitbull.. shes one of the sweetest girls you could ever meet. I happen to be the one everyones gotta watch out for. because i have a don’t take crap from anyone kind of tude. if you discriminate against me or my dog youre in for it! I am disabled with a pitbull. that’s enough reason for most to look at me as if i were nothing but dirt. and a good 85% of you readers DO. i can’t walk around the neighborhood without dealing with the bullshit of bigots and racists. so i got me and my girl a treadmill to help alleviate that problem of not being able to walk her publicly because of the publics opinion about my dog.
thanks for the bad rep media. now my girl and i are considered pariahs
and most of you folks WANT to believe what these lying shitheads say! fine go ahead. don’t expect that i’m gonna be nice about it because i’m so god damn sick and bloody tired of this bigotry bullshit that i’m thinking i’ll POUND trhe SHIT out of the next mofo who sneers at me or my dog. not a good tude.. but hey . 85% of the stupid idiots believing the media out there deserve the shit they get from me for believing the LIES! so deal with it. its thanks to the tudes of many about my disability status and my pitbull that i have copped one of my own and force the rest of you, john q public, to deal with the not so nice part of me that is eager to come to the forefront and tear some of these ignorant idiots a new asshole! not MY fault the rest of the world decided to treat me that way. and now the rest of the world has to reap what theyve sown. because i refuse to be nice anymore!
nuff said. its about time for me to start taking action!
Peggy
Feb 21, 2014 at 9:26 am
OMG……………. Someone find her and take the dogs…….
ralph edmondson
Feb 21, 2014 at 10:54 am
I had some wolf hybrids. the only fights they got into occurred when the neighbor’s pitt-bull escaped from his captivity and came to visit. the poor thing would run under my house…right into the wolf’s den. when he exited, he would be bleeding from dozens of shallow cuts. it only took a few seconds. forget about breaking it up. then he would run to the other neighbor’s house… and do it all over again with another hybrid who lived there. the two hybrids never fought one another. hybrids and wolves are NOT dogs. you must understand wolf-pack dynamics to keep these animals happy. you MUST be alpha, and your “cubs” (children) must maintain the same status. my infant son could crawl all over my wolves, pull hair, bite ears, poke eyes. the only human they ever showed aggression was the owner of the pitt. not his wife, not her son, only him. we lived at the edge of hundreds of acres of wilderness, and they were able to run free. that’s the only way to humanely “keep” these amazing creatures.
Jill Krawczyk
Feb 21, 2014 at 11:41 am
Tasha Benson, with all due respect, you have NO business raising animals of ANY kind. Your ignorance of proper animal care and treatment is glaringly apparent and deeply disturbing. I hope that the message you posted in FEB 2013 about using cattle prods on your animals prompted visits to your facility by multiple animal welfare agencies. God help you and the animals who suffer(ed) at your hands.
Deanna
Feb 21, 2014 at 1:35 pm
Gosh! I was reading some of these here comments, and someone mentioned the use of a water hose. Its seems to be the nicer way to go. Maybe you could put the prod down, and give it a try???? Please????!
Janet
Feb 21, 2014 at 2:33 pm
My advice to you is stop raising hybrids. It’s against the law. Secondly, if you think using a cow prod makes you Alpha, then you are misinformed of what Alpha means. Alpha means you are leader of the pack, not the abusive owner.
Shooting off a gun may not only injure the dogs, but you may injure someone else.
Grabbing a dog by the back of the legs is dangerous as well, so do it wisely and do not injure the dog. Before you try grabbing the back legs, try to pick up a board or anything to put between them to temporarily separate them. Do not hit them, that is just you joining the fight. A leash around one of the dogs to pull them apart. Load noses like banging metal together. Water thrown at them. You can use your feet and legs (no kicking, again you become part of the fight) if necessary, but you may still get bitten, I advise this as a last measure.
Menna
Feb 21, 2014 at 5:25 pm
You should be banned from going anywhere near animals. That’s animal cruelty, and I truly hope one day an animal bites you fatally.
Susan Bryant
Feb 22, 2014 at 4:30 pm
Hybrid wolves?? why?? are you mad??
Kevin
Feb 26, 2014 at 3:13 pm
Cattle prod? shooting a gun at he ground? are you kidding me…you are some kind of stupid as well as cruel. Hope you shoot yourself in the foot. moron.
Kristi
Mar 6, 2014 at 4:31 pm
I hope next time you shoot at the ground you end up shooting your own foot. I also hope someone gets pissed at you and uses a cattle prod on you so you know how it feels. Sick piece of crap!