I adopted an 8-year-old dog last year, and he has some pretty intense aggression issues. His first instinct when he sees another person or dog is to charge, bark, and sometimes bite. I’ve looked into training but the programs are crazy expensive, like $6k for 6 weeks! Does anyone know of cheaper alternatives? I’m also wondering if crate training is necessary or if not letting him sleep in my bed will help with the biting. Also, I’m moving to Florida and I don’t drive, so I’m trying to figure out how to get him there. Can I fly with him? I don’t want to put him through too much stress. Any ideas would be super helpful!
Wow, that sounds tough! For the training, have you tried looking up online courses or local trainers who don’t charge so much? I know it’s not the same as the $6k program, but there might be more affordable options.
@Dexter
I think you can find some good online resources! Check out ‘Behavior Adjustment Training’ or something similar. I’ve heard good things about it. You can do it on your own too.
Hazel said:
@Dexter
I think you can find some good online resources! Check out ‘Behavior Adjustment Training’ or something similar. I’ve heard good things about it. You can do it on your own too.
Thanks for the tip! I’ll check it out. Just a little nervous about doing it alone, but maybe it’s worth a try. 
Not sure about the plane, but honestly, I think hiring someone to drive him is a safer option, especially if he’s muzzled and sedated. But that’s a long drive… is that something you’d be comfortable with?
@Robbertadams
Yeah, a long drive sounds stressful for both of you. Maybe you could ask around for pet transport services? They might have some solutions that could help with the move.
Hazel said:
@Robbertadams
Yeah, a long drive sounds stressful for both of you. Maybe you could ask around for pet transport services? They might have some solutions that could help with the move.
That’s a great idea! I didn’t think of that. I’ll look into it. Thanks for the suggestion! 
For what it’s worth, I wouldn’t put him in a basket muzzle for a couple of days straight. That sounds like a lot of stress, even with sedation. Maybe just for shorter periods?
Lisa said:
For what it’s worth, I wouldn’t put him in a basket muzzle for a couple of days straight. That sounds like a lot of stress, even with sedation. Maybe just for shorter periods?
I was worried about that too. I don’t want him to feel trapped or overly stressed. I’ll keep that in mind when planning the move.
I’d say crate training could help, but it’s all about consistency. It sounds like you’ve already made progress with him, so maybe just work on separating a bit more over time? Not sure about the bed thing though. It’s tricky.
@Jennifer
Yeah, I’ve been trying to create some space, but it’s hard when he’s so attached to me. I’ll try being more consistent with it though.
As for the biting, fear aggression can be tough. It’s like they just don’t trust anyone new. If he’s anxious or scared, it might help to reinforce positive behaviors with treats when visitors are around. But definitely avoid having people get too close too fast.
@TrainerTom
Totally agree. When I introduced my dog to people, I did the treat thing, and it helped a lot. But yeah, baby steps, especially with a fearful dog.
Hazel said:
@TrainerTom
Totally agree. When I introduced my dog to people, I did the treat thing, and it helped a lot. But yeah, baby steps, especially with a fearful dog.
I’ve been trying the treats thing, but he still gets scared. Maybe it’ll take time. Just have to stay patient!