How to train dog aggression towards cats? ?

Question

I have trained my Bull Mastiff to cope with children but now I have a cat, and when the cat comes around I am forced to put him in another room. I know this is not solving the problem but he is a really big dog and is hard to control when he goes in this "mode". After the cat is gone he is still in this "mode" for about ten minutes then back to normal. I cannot afford a trainer right now so what are some things that I can do at home to help with this matter. Anything helps

Thanks

Answer 1

Find a good home for the new cat.  What were you thinking?

Answer 2

MiMi- that's a dumb answer....obviously this person cares.

Im involved in a rescue and many of the dogs I've brought in dont like my cat...I usually keep them seperated.

But since you've made a commitment to both animals, you have to have patience and be willing to work. Put your dog on a sturdy leash. Let the cat out. Every time he is OVERLY excited toward the cat correct him and when he focuses on you give him a treat.

You dont want to yell or have negative reinforcements, cause that'll only make the dog associate the cat with getting in trouble. He will want to eliminate the cat, since it is making problems.  Alot of POSITIVE reinforcements. This can work out, dont give up on either animal.

Ive seen a dog that killed a cat be nose to nose with one. Patience!

Thanks Adam

Answer 3

I wish I was level 2 so I could rate answers because the one above is completely correct.  I have done this with my dog with multiple things.  She is not aggressive in a mean way but in an overly playful way and that method has worked greatly!

Answer 4

Good grief......it's in his nature ! I liked the other guy's advice which was to get the cat a new home ! Good luck !