6 Tips For Adopting 'Aggressive' Dog Breeds Adopting a dog breed characterized as "aggressive?" Try these 6 tips. 1. Brush up on the basics of dog training, nutrition and psychology so you'll be prepared. 2. Consider fostering first to familiarize yourself with the breed's traits and unique needs. 3. Consult a dog trainer or a specialist who can show you the ropes of training "aggressive" breeds. 4. Avoid using punishment tools such as shock collars or choke chains. 5. Don't use fear tactics; they can make aggressive tendencies even worse. 6. Don't be afraid to use a muzzle if your dog has a history of biting.