Help: Pit with Human Aggression

[nrose]

I've had my new pit bull for just over a week now. He came from a rescue organization and was previously in a shelter. He is 1.5 years old and most of the time he is a loving, wanting-to-please, cuddly dog. However, I am growing very alarmed at a few signs of human aggression and need guidance with finding a trainer/behaviorist in NYC. His background was with an abusive man who kept him locked up for days at a time in the apartment. The aggressive signs he's showing include: lunging as if to attack at 2 strange men on the street, a couple of hard-line stares at ME (I'm female, and his loving owner), curling his lips back at some trusted friends, and sometimes stiffening up around my boyfriend or friends. I love this dog and want to be able to work through this, but I am plagued with growing dread - is this something that can be worked on? Please help.

Bully Lover in NYC

[mastiffsj]

As someone who has been on the receiving end of human aggression, you can not afford to waste any time. Find a trainer that uses only positive methods (and preferably has breed experience) ASAP. How long was he in foster care? I am sending positive vibes to you and your baby and pray he will be ok and this can be modified so that you can give him the life he deserves.

[RealPitBull]

Whoaaaa.....who adopted this dog out to you? This is some serious behavior, you should NOT be seeing this. IF you've only had the dog a week, I am inclined to tell you to return the dog. Have you talked to the rescue? Unless you are ready and able to devote time to working with a good trainer or behaviorist, I'd have to push you towards returning the dog. The problem is, the rescue is likely to adopt this dog out to another unsuspecting person.

I can recommend two trainers in NYC. Private message me and I'll give you their info.