In this episode of Backyard Pet Talk, Shannon Riley interviews Michael Shikashio, an aggressive dog expert and founder of aggressivedog.com. Michael shares his journey from working in other industries to becoming a dog trainer after fostering dogs with behavioral challenges. He highlights how aggression in dogs is often a result of fear or discomfort, and stresses the importance of using positive reinforcement over aversive techniques.
Michael discusses the role of culture in dog behavior, the significance of understanding a dog's emotional state, and the importance of empathy and communication in handling aggression. He also touches on the use of technology, such as devices that monitor dogs' health, to better understand underlying issues that might contribute to aggressive behavior.
The episode wraps up with advice for trainers and dog owners on managing aggression, stressing the importance of seeking professional help, considering a dog's health, and understanding the context of the aggressive behavior.
Check our Michael Shikkashio's website here:
https://aggressivedog.com/