This Person Asked For Advice On How To Train An Ex-Bait Dog, And The Internet Came To Offer Support
Recently, a Quora user posted a question on a topic that resulted in a resounding outpouring of support for the OP. The person asked for advice on how to train an aggressive dog.
More than that, the person was seeking tips on how to train a dog that had previously been used as a bait dog. If you're unfamiliar with the term "bait dog," firstly, lucky you, and we wish we weren't familiar with it either.
Sadly, the term refers to a dog used for bait in a dogfighting ring, particularly in training. Any dog can be a bait dog, but often, small dogs or even puppies are used.
Larger dogs are also used sometimes, but they generally have their mouths taped shut or their teeth removed so that they can't fight back or injure the fighting dog. It's extremely upsetting to think about.
Dogfighting is a cruel and inhumane industry and is illegal in most countries. Unfortunately, there are still sick individuals in the world who run dogfighting rings underground for entertainment and gambling purposes.
Bait dogs can be rehabilitated, though. After all, they were chosen because they were not aggressive in the first place.
However, understandably, rehabilitating an ex-bait dog takes commitment, patience, and a lot of dedication. So, you can see why the Quora community was keen to help the OP with this one.
It takes a person with a heart full of kindness and generosity to take on a dog like that. Keep scrolling to see how people reacted.
A Quora user posted a question on how to train an aggressive dog, or more specifically, an ex-bait dog.
The OP mentioned that they had trained dogs in the past using positive reinforcement. However, this dog was on another level.
Here's how people responded.
"Always listen to your pup's instincts with your eyes and ears."
"Consult a professional."
"Get another set of eyes on the problem."
"Give him a safe space in your home that only he is allowed in."
"Their whole lives, they have been conditioned in fear and violence, and you have to somehow undo that and start from scratch."
"You can't get anywhere if you focus on his sad past."
"A tired dog is a happy dog is a good dog."
"Never put your hand over or above his head."
"You need to be working with a positive trainer who specializes in aggression."
"No one online can really help with this project."
"Ask your vet to recommend a good trainer."
Whoever did this deserves the worst!
What are your thoughts on this topic? There is no denying that dogfighting is an entirely barbaric pastime that needs to end.
What could possibly be entertaining about watching poor, defenseless animals fight each other to the death against their will? It's horrific to think about and distressing for any animal lover to even imagine.
We hope that the OP can help the poor dog regain trust and live the happy life it deserves. If only we could rescue all of them!
We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
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