Your dog is so mellow you’ve taken to calling him “Mr. Chill.”

But when you bring him to a boarding kennel because you’re heading out on vacation,  you get a phone call from the kennel one or two days later to report that “Mr. Chill’ has become ‘Mr. T” on a rampage.

In other words, your dog has become very aggressive. What gives?

Going to a kennel can be very stressful for a dog, even one with a very mild or even temperament. New smells. New surroundings. New dogs. New humans – and you’re nowhere in sight!

Is it any wonder that a dog could become stressed and lash out?

Worried that your cuddle buddy could become overly aggressive in a boarding kennel?

Dog Boarding Tips: What To Do if Your Dog Becomes Aggressive at the Kennel

Read below for some tips on what to do to possibly prevent your dog from becoming aggressive, as well as steps to take should the kennel call you to report his aggression.

• If your dog has never been to any kennel before, it’s wise to bring him there for a day or even for an overnight, to see how he does. Many kennels, in fact, will ask you if your dog has been boarded before and may suggest a trial stay or sleepover.
• If your dog hasn’t been trained to use a dog crate at home, it’s a very good idea to make sure he’s comfortable in enclosed spaces (such as a kennel cage) long before you decide to board him.
• Make sure you bring a toy, blanket, even the dog’s own feeding and drinking bowls with you to the kennel so that he’ll have familiar things with him. It also could be a good idea to make sure he has a t-shirt or towel with the scent of his favorite human all over it so that he can sleep with while at the kennel.
• If your dog is high-strung, nervous or assertive as a matter of course, it’s best to talk to the kennel before boarding him to ask if they have experience handling this type of dog and can they accommodate him. Some kennels won’t allow nervous/assertive dogs to board, but most will: be upfront about your dog’s personality.

If you get a call from the kennel that your dog has become aggressive you should get a detailed description of your dog’s behavior.

Understand that if your dog has bitten another dog – or bitten a human – or growls, snaps his teeth, etc., you’ll more than likely be asked to retrieve your dog immediately. (If you have good reason to believe your dog may become this aggressive and you’re traveling a far distance, make arrangements with a trusted family member or friend – and one whom your dog trusts – to get the dog until you can return.)

If the dog is very aggressive and can’t be approached the kennel may notify a local animal control service to remove the dog until you can retrieve it. You undoubtedly will be held liable for any damage – to property or person – that occurs as a result of your dog’s behavior.

We love dogs here at Barney’s Ranch and we work hard to ensure that all of our four-footed guests enjoy themselves. If you have concerns about your dog’s behavior at a boarding kennel, be sure to tell us. We can let you know if we think your pet will be better accommodated elsewhere and can make some recommendations.

Call us at 469-450-7040 to learn more about our services or send us an e-mail at info@BarneysRanch.com.

Image courtesy of vectorolie/FreeDigitalPhotos.