Tornjak breed FAQs Training and Exercise Requirements

Training Tips for Your Tornjak: Obedience Training

Britta Thygesen 28.04.2023 0

As a dog owner, you understand the importance of training your furry friend to be obedient. When it comes to the Tornjak breed, proper training is even more critical because of their protective instincts and independent nature. However, training a Tornjak for obedience isn’t always easy, and can be a daunting task for many owners. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you train your Tornjak effectively, covering everything from basic commands to advanced training techniques. So, let’s dive in and learn how to properly train your Tornjak for obedience!

Understanding the Tornjak Breed

As a potential owner of a Tornjak, it’s essential to understand the key characteristics of this breed and the importance of breed-specific training. Tornjaks are highly intelligent, independent, and protective working dogs that require a lot of physical and mental stimulation to avoid destructive behavior. In this section, we’ll dive into the unique traits of the Tornjak breed and discuss how to cater your training approach to ensure a happy and well-behaved companion. For more information about mental stimulation for Tornjaks, check out this article.

Key Characteristics of the Tornjak

The Tornjak, a large livestock guardian dog breed, is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and independent nature. Here are some of the key characteristics that every Tornjak owner should be aware of:

Protective: The Tornjak has a strong protective instinct, which means they may be reserved or even suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization from an early age is important to prevent aggression towards people or other animals.
Independent: This breed is known for its independent nature which can make training more challenging. A Tornjak may choose to ignore commands if they feel they have a better idea of how to handle the situation.
Loyal: Tornjaks are fiercely loyal to their families and make excellent watchdogs. They will protect their loved ones at all costs, which can make them territorial if not properly trained.
High energy: As a working breed, Tornjaks have a lot of energy and require daily exercise. They thrive on activities that challenge them both physically and mentally.
Good with children: When raised with children, Tornjaks can be gentle and patient. However, as with any breed, they should always be supervised when interacting with kids.
Susceptible to hip dysplasia: Like many large breeds, Tornjaks can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. It’s important to keep them at a healthy weight and provide them with exercise that is gentle on their joints.

Understanding these key characteristics of the Tornjak is essential when it comes to training and raising a Tornjak properly. For more information on Tornjak training tips, check out our tornjak training tips article.

The Importance of Breed-Specific Training

Training a Tornjak for obedience is essential for a happy and harmonious relationship between the dog and its owner. However, it’s important to note that each breed has unique characteristics that require a specific approach to training. The Tornjak breed, for example, is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protectiveness. A breed-specific training approach is necessary to effectively teach these dogs obedience.

Here are some reasons why breed-specific training is important for Tornjaks:

They require strong leadership: Tornjaks have a strong guarding instinct and can become dominant if not trained properly. It’s important for the owner to establish themselves as the pack leader through consistent training techniques and positive reinforcement.
They need daily exercise: Tornjaks are an active breed that needs sufficient exercise to stay healthy and happy. Without enough physical activity, they may become bored and destructive. Incorporate daily exercise into their training routine to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. You can learn more about exercises for Tornjaks here.
They require socialization: Tornjaks can be wary of strangers and other animals, which is why socialization is necessary from a young age. Introducing them to new people, animals, and environments can help them become more comfortable and confident. Check out our article on house training Tornjaks for more tips on socialization.
They have specific training needs: Tornjaks require specific training techniques to address their guarding tendencies and protectiveness. Leash training, for example, is crucial for controlling their guarding behavior and keeping them safe in public. You can learn more about leash training Tornjaks here.
They thrive on mental stimulation: Tornjaks are an intelligent breed that requires mental stimulation to stay engaged and obedient. Incorporating games and puzzles into their training routine can help challenge their minds and increase their focus. You can learn more about the benefits of agility training for Tornjaks here.
They need to respond well to recall: Due to their strong guarding instincts, Tornjaks may have a tendency to wander or run off. Training them to come when called is crucial for their safety and obedience. You can learn more about training Tornjaks to come on command here.

Breed-specific training is crucial for Tornjaks to effectively teach them obedience and address their specific training needs. By incorporating techniques such as positive reinforcement, daily exercise, socialization, and specific training methods, owners can establish themselves as pack leaders and build a strong bond with their Tornjak.

Creating a Positive Learning Environment

When it comes to training your Tornjak for obedience, creating a positive learning environment is crucial for success. This entails using methods that reinforce good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. A positive approach to training sets a foundation for a strong and lasting relationship between you and your Tornjak. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of rewards-based training and setting clear expectations to help your Tornjak thrive. For some specific exercises to help with training, check out our article on Tornjak dog exercises.

Rewards-Based Training and Positive Reinforcement

When it comes to training a Tornjak for obedience, rewards-based training and positive reinforcement are essential techniques to implement. This method focuses on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. This creates a positive learning environment for the Tornjak and encourages them to repeat the desired behavior.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when using rewards-based training and positive reinforcement:

Use high-value rewards: Rewards should be something that the Tornjak really enjoys, whether it’s treats, toys, or praise.
Timing is crucial: Rewards should be given immediately after the desired behavior is exhibited so that the Tornjak can make the association between the behavior and the reward.
Be consistent: Make sure to consistently reward the Tornjak when they exhibit the desired behavior to reinforce its importance.
Ignore undesirable behavior: Rather than punishing undesirable behavior, simply ignore it and wait for the Tornjak to exhibit good behavior so that you can reward them for it.

In order to effectively use rewards-based training, it’s important to understand what motivates your Tornjak. For some Tornjaks, food rewards work great, while for others, praise and attention are more motivating. Experiment with different types of rewards and see what your Tornjak responds to best.

Positive reinforcement involves adding something positive to increase the likelihood of the desired behavior being repeated. This could include giving the Tornjak a treat, toy, or praise when they sit on command. By consistently using positive reinforcement, the Tornjak will learn that exhibiting certain behaviors will result in positive outcomes.

Rewards-based training and positive reinforcement create a more enjoyable and effective learning experience for both the Tornjak and the owner. It helps to build a strong bond between the two and creates a foundation for continued success in obedience training.

Setting Clear Expectations and Consistency

When it comes to training a Tornjak for obedience, it’s essential to set clear expectations and maintain consistency throughout the process. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so it’s crucial to set up a consistent training schedule. This means working on obedience training at the same time every day and sticking to a predictable routine.
Use consistent cues: When teaching your Tornjak commands, it’s important to use consistent language and cues every time. For example, if you’re teaching your dog to “sit,” always use the same word and hand gesture to signal the behavior you want.
Avoid mixed signals: Inconsistency in training can confuse a dog and slow the learning process. Avoid giving mixed signals or commands, as this can lead to confusion and frustration for both you and your dog.
Set realistic goals: Every dog is different, so it’s important to set realistic goals for your Tornjak’s training. Be patient and expect progress to happen gradually.
Hold everyone accountable: If multiple people in your household interact with your Tornjak, it’s important to set clear expectations for everyone involved in the training process. Consistent training from everyone will help your dog learn faster and make good behaviors stick.
Stay positive: Finally, remember to stay positive throughout the training process. Dogs respond best to rewards-based training and positive reinforcement, so maintain a positive attitude and celebrate small successes along the way.

By setting clear expectations and maintaining consistency in your Tornjak’s obedience training, you’ll be setting your pet up for success and creating a closer bond with your furry friend.

Basic Commands and Techniques

Establishing basic commands and techniques is essential to properly training a Tornjak for obedience. As one of the key steps in the training process, these foundational skills set the path for more complex commands down the road. So, grab some treats and get ready to work on Sit, Stay, Come on Command, proper leash training techniques, and good social behavior. Let’s get started!

Sit, Stay, and Come on Command

Teaching your Tornjak basic commands is an essential part of obedience training. The commands “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are the foundation for all other commands you will teach your dog.

The “Sit” Command: Teaching your Tornjak to sit is relatively simple. Begin by saying “sit” while gently pressing down on your dog’s hindquarters. Once your dog is in the sitting position, give them a treat and verbal praise. Repeat this process until your dog responds to the command without physical prompting.

The “Stay” Command: The “stay” command requires a bit more patience and practice. Start by commanding your dog to “sit.” Then, with your hand out, palm facing your dog, say “stay” in a firm, but not aggressive tone. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog, and always reward them with a treat and praise for staying in the commanded position.

The “Come” Command: Training your Tornjak to come when called is a crucial command. Start by calling your dog’s name in a clear and concise tone, followed by the command “come.” When your dog comes to you, reward them with a treat and praise. It’s important to continue practicing this command in various environments and situations to ensure that your Tornjak comes to you when needed.

Command	Technique	Tips
Sit	Press down on hindquarters while saying “sit”	Consistency is key, and reward your Tornjak every time they respond to the command correctly
Stay	Start with “sit,” with palm facing dog say “stay,” increase distance, return and reward	Start with short distances and gradually increase the distance over time. Don’t rush this command, as patience and consistency are critical
Come	Call dog’s name, command “come,” reward and praise	Practice this command in various environments and situations to ensure your Tornjak comes to you when needed

Remember, positive reinforcement is the most effective training technique, so always reward your Tornjak with treats and praise for a job well done. With time, patience, and consistency, your Tornjak will soon master these basic obedience commands.

Proper Leash Training Techniques

Leash training is an essential part of obedience training for the Tornjak breed. It not only helps to keep your dog under control when you’re out in public, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Here are some proper leash training techniques to start with:

Technique	Description
Introduce the Leash Slowly:	Many Tornjaks are not used to wearing a collar or being attached to a leash. Introduce the leash slowly by allowing your dog to sniff and explore it before attaching it to their collar. Let your dog wear the leash inside the house and praise them when they are comfortable with it.
Teach Your Dog to Walk Beside You:	Teaching your Tornjak to walk beside you is crucial for their safety and your control. Start by standing still and waiting for your dog to sit. Once they’re sitting, take a few steps forward and reward them with treats if they stay by your side. Gradually increase the distance and time.
Avoid Pulling the Leash:	Never pull your dog’s leash when training them. If your Tornjak starts to pull, stop walking and stand still until they come back to your side. This will teach them to stay focused on you during walks.
Use Positive Reinforcement:	Training your Tornjak with positive reinforcement is a great way to build a strong bond with them. Reward your dog with treats and praise when they perform leash training exercises correctly. Avoid using punishment during training as it can cause your dog to become fearful and aggressive.
Practice with Distractions:	Once your Tornjak is comfortable walking beside you on a leash, introduce them to distractions such as other dogs or people. Start in a quiet area and gradually increase the distractions. Reward your dog when they stay calm and focused during walks.

Using these proper leash training techniques will help you and your Tornjak have a safe and enjoyable walking experience. Remember to be patient and consistent during training. With time and practice, your Tornjak will become a well-trained and obedient companion.

Training for Good Social Behavior

One of the essential parts of training your Tornjak for obedience is ensuring good social behavior. This includes acclimating your dog to different people, animals, environments, and situations. Here are some steps to follow for a smooth and positive socialization experience:

Start with familiar people and animals: Introduce your Tornjak to people and pets he knows before moving onto new individuals or species. This creates a sense of comfort and familiarity for your canine.
Gradually increase interactions: Once your Tornjak is comfortable with familiar faces, gradually introduce him to new people and pets. Make sure to use positive reinforcement and give your dog plenty of treats for good behavior.
Expose your Tornjak to different environments: Take your Tornjak to parks, cafes, and other pet-friendly environments to help him get used to different sights, sounds, and smells. Again, make sure to reward good behavior with treats or praise.
Train your dog to behave politely: Teach your Tornjak basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” to ensure he behaves politely in different social situations. Use rewards-based training and plenty of practice to reinforce these behaviors.
Encourage positive interactions: Encourage your Tornjak to interact positively with other dogs and animals. This will help him learn how to read other animals’ body language, recognize when play is appropriate, and avoid conflicts.

Socialization is an ongoing process that requires patience and consistency. It is crucial to start early, be patient, and stay positive throughout the process. Make sure to give your Tornjak plenty of opportunities to interact with other animals, expose him to different environments, and use rewards-based training to reinforce good behavior. With practice and perseverance, you can help your Tornjak become a well-socialized and obedient companion.

Advanced Training for Obedience

As your Tornjak becomes more comfortable with basic obedience commands, you may want to challenge them with more advanced techniques. Advanced training for obedience allows you to expand your dog’s skill set and improve their behavior in a variety of different scenarios. However, it’s important to lay a strong foundation with basic commands before moving on to more complex tasks. With patience and consistency, your Tornjak can become a well-trained and obedient companion. Let’s explore some techniques for taking your dog’s training to the next level.

Laying a Foundation for More Complex Commands

When it comes to training your Tornjak for obedience, laying a strong foundation for more complex commands is crucial. This foundation involves establishing reliable responses to basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”

To build on this foundation, you must gradually introduce your Tornjak to more complex commands, while reinforcing earlier training. One effective approach is to use a training schedule that gradually increases in difficulty over time. This will not only help you track your dog’s progress but also prevent frustration and burnout.

Here’s an example of a week-by-week training schedule for laying a foundation for more complex commands:

Week One	Week Two	Week Three	Week Four
Practice “Sit” and “Stay” in a quiet, low-distraction environment.	Increase the challenge by practicing “Sit” and “Stay” outdoors or in a moderately distracting environment.	Introduce the “Down” command and practice in a quiet, low-distraction environment.	Combine “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Down” into a sequence, gradually increasing the time and distance between commands.
Practice “Come” in a quiet, low-distraction environment with a long lead.	Strengthen “Come” by practicing with distractions and gradually increasing the length of the lead.	Review all commands in a moderately distracting environment.	Include “Heel” and practice walking on a leash without pulling.
Practice “Leave It” and “Drop It” commands with toys or treats.	Combine “Leave It” and “Drop It” with “Come” for greater control of your Tornjak in distracting environments.	Introduce hand signals for all commands.	Review all commands in a highly distracting environment with increasing levels of difficulty.

Remember to reinforce each command with rewards-based training and positive reinforcement, as well as clear expectations and consistency. With time and patience, your Tornjak will be capable of mastering more complex commands and following your lead in a variety of environments.

Training for Specific Scenarios like Off-Leash Walking

One of the most challenging scenarios when it comes to obedience training for Tornjaks is off-leash walking. This can be a difficult task, especially if your Tornjak has a strong prey drive or is easily distracted by other dogs or people. However, with patience and consistency, it can be achieved. Here are some tips to help train your Tornjak for off-leash walking:

Start with a solid foundation: Before attempting off-leash walking, make sure your Tornjak has a strong foundation in basic obedience commands such as “come,” “stay,” and “heel.” These commands will be crucial when you’re off-leash and need to keep your dog safe and under control.
Practice in a secure area: Start off by practicing off-leash walking in a secure, enclosed area such as a fenced yard or dog park. This will allow your Tornjak to get used to being off-leash while still being in a safe environment. Make sure to praise and reward your Tornjak for good behavior and coming when called.
Gradually increase distance: Once your Tornjak is comfortable off-leash in a secure area, gradually increase the distance you walk from your dog. Start off by walking a few steps away, then turn around and call your Tornjak to come to you. Gradually increase the distance until you can walk a full distance away from your Tornjak and still have them respond to your commands.
Avoid distractions: Keep your off-leash walks in quiet, low-distracting environments until your Tornjak is comfortable and reliable. Avoid busy streets or areas with other dogs or people until your Tornjak has mastered off-leash walking in low-distraction environments.
Use positive reinforcement: Always reward your Tornjak with praise and treats for good behavior, especially when they come when called or show good off-leash behavior. This will reinforce their behavior and encourage them to continue following commands even when off-leash.

Remember, off-leash walking takes time and patience. Don’t rush the process, and always prioritize your Tornjak’s safety. With consistent practice and positive reinforcement, your Tornjak can become a reliable off-leash walker.

Crate Training and Other Helpful Techniques

Training your Tornjak to be obedient also means teaching them to behave well when they are left alone. Crate training is a popular technique used to help dogs feel safe and secure while you are away. Here are some helpful tips for crate training your Tornjak:

Tip	Explanation
Start Slowly:	Introduce your Tornjak to the crate gradually. Begin by placing treats or toys inside and letting them investigate it calmly.
Make It Comfortable:	Line the crate with a comfortable bed or blanket. Make sure the size of the crate is appropriate – not too small and not too large.
Associate Positively:	Establish positive associations with the crate. Feed your Tornjak treats or their meals inside the crate to reinforce that it is a safe and happy space.
Don’t Use as a Punishment:	Never use the crate as a form of punishment. This will only make your Tornjak fear or dislike it, making it much harder to crate train them.
Gradual Extension:	Gradually extend the amount of time your Tornjak spends in the crate. Start with just a few minutes at a time and build up to longer periods.
Patience is Key:	Be patient while crate training your Tornjak. It may take some time for them to feel comfortable inside the crate, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, they will learn to love it.

In addition to crate training, there are other helpful techniques that can help your Tornjak become more obedient. One technique is using a longline to practice recall commands in a safe, enclosed area. Another is integrating obedience training into your Tornjak’s daily routine, such as practicing commands during walks or mealtimes. Consistency and patience are key to training your Tornjak effectively. Remember to always use positive reinforcement and create a safe and comfortable learning environment for them.

Challenges and Troubleshooting

Obedience training for your Tornjak can be a rewarding experience, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. Although every dog is unique, there may be common issues that you may encounter during the training process. As a responsible owner, it’s important to be aware of these challenges and troubleshoot them effectively. This section of the article will highlight some of the obstacles you may encounter, and provide tips on how to overcome them so that you can help your Tornjak reach their full obedience potential.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

As a Tornjak owner or trainer, it’s important to be aware of common obedience issues that may arise during the training process. The good news is that most of these issues can be resolved with patience and perseverance. Here are some common problems you may encounter and how to solve them:

Pulling on the leash: Tornjaks are powerful dogs, so it’s not uncommon for them to pull on the leash during walks. To remedy this issue, try using a harness instead of a collar, which will give you more control over your dog’s movements. Refrain from jerking the leash and instead use gentle tugs to redirect your Tornjak’s attention back to you. Additionally, make sure your Tornjak is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to help curb his desire to pull.
Barking excessively: Tornjaks are known to be vocal dogs, but excessive barking can be a nuisance. If your Tornjak is barking excessively, try to identify the trigger. Is he barking at strangers, other dogs, or something else? Once you identify the cause, work on desensitizing your Tornjak to it using positive reinforcement techniques. Teach your Tornjak to “speak” and “quiet” on command so you can control his barking when necessary.
Jumping on people: Tornjaks are affectionate dogs that love attention, but jumping on people is not always appreciated. To solve this issue, teach your Tornjak the “off” command by praising him when all four paws are on the ground and withholding attention when he jumps. Consistency is key – make sure all members of your household follow this rule so your Tornjak learns that jumping is not allowed.
Ignoring commands: If your Tornjak is ignoring your commands, it may be because he’s bored or distracted. To get his attention, use high-value rewards like treats or toys to keep him engaged during training sessions. Additionally, make sure you’re training in a quiet environment free of distractions, and keep training sessions short and consistent. If your Tornjak still seems disinterested, try changing up the routine to make training more exciting.

Remember, training a Tornjak takes time and effort. By staying patient, consistent, and using positive reinforcement, you can help your Tornjak overcome any obedience issues and become a well-behaved companion.

Addressing Aggression and Fearfulness

Aggression and fearfulness can be serious issues for any dog breed, including Tornjaks. It’s essential to address these problems immediately and seek professional help if necessary. Here are some tips on how to address aggression and fearfulness in Tornjaks:

Tip	Description
Identifying the Trigger	First and foremost, it’s essential to identify what triggers your Tornjak’s aggressive or fearful behavior. Is it certain individuals, other animals, or loud noises? Knowing the root cause of the problem will help you address it effectively.
Positive Reinforcement	One effective approach is to use positive reinforcement during training to replace negative behavior with positive ones. Every time your Tornjak displays good behavior, reward them with treats, toys, or praise. This will help them associate good behavior with positive outcomes.
Desensitization	If the trigger is a particular sound or stimulus, desensitization can be helpful. Gradually expose your Tornjak to the stimulus, starting at a low level and gradually increasing the intensity. This approach can be time-consuming but can be effective in retraining your Tornjak’s behavior.
Avoiding Triggers	If possible, try to avoid the triggers that cause your Tornjak’s aggressive or fearful behavior. For example, if your Tornjak doesn’t do well around other dogs or people, avoid taking them to crowded places.
Seeking Professional Help	If your Tornjak’s aggressive or fearful behavior doesn’t improve with training or if it’s severe, it’s essential to seek professional help. A professional dog trainer, behaviorist, or veterinarian can help you develop a personalized behavior modification plan for your Tornjak.

Addressing aggression and fearfulness can be a challenging process, but with patience and consistency, you can help your Tornjak overcome these issues. Remember to reward good behavior, identify the triggers, and seek professional help if necessary.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of this comprehensive guide on how to properly train a Tornjak for obedience, it’s important to reflect on the key takeaways from the various sections covered in the article. From understanding the unique characteristics of the breed, to creating a positive learning environment, and advancing to more complex commands, we have discussed the essential steps in developing a well-trained Tornjak. While there may be challenges and setbacks along the way, it’s important to remain patient and consistent in your training methods for optimal results. Let’s recap the importance of obedience training for your Tornjak and how it can lead to a happier and healthier relationship with your furry companion.

Recap the Importance of Obedience Training

It cannot be overstated how important obedience training is for your Tornjak. It not only ensures their safety but also increases their overall quality of life. During training, you establish yourself as the alpha and build a bond of trust with your dog.

Through training, you set clear boundaries and expectations for your Tornjak, which helps them understand their role in your household. This also helps them develop good habits and behavior that can help them fit in with your family and community.

Additionally, obedience training can help prevent destructive behavior in your Tornjak. With proper training, your dog will be less likely to chew on furniture or other items, bark excessively, or jump on people. These habits can be frustrating and costly to address, but with obedience training, you can avoid these problems entirely.

Obedience training can have a profound effect on your Tornjak’s mental health. Training sessions provide your dog with mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment when they master a new command. It also can help to build their confidence and social skills, making your Tornjak a well-rounded member of your family and community.

Obedience training can benefit both you and your Tornjak immensely. It helps establish a healthy and loving relationship, reinforces good habits, and develops a sense of trust and confidence in your dog that will help them become a happy and content member of your family for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tornjak breed known for?

The Tornjak breed is known for being a livestock guardian dog with a strong protective instinct and loyalty to their family.

When should I start training my Tornjak?

Training should start as early as possible, ideally when the dog is a puppy. This can help establish good habits and prevent bad behaviors from forming.

What is rewards-based training?

Rewards-based training is a positive reinforcement training method that involves rewarding desired behaviors with treats, toys, or praise to encourage the dog to continue exhibiting those behaviors.

Why is consistency in training important?

Consistency is important because it helps the dog understand what is expected of them and avoids confusion. By setting clear expectations and consistently reinforcing them, you can help your Tornjak learn more quickly and effectively.

Can Tornjaks be trained to walk off-leash?

With the right training and preparation, Tornjaks can be trained to walk safely off-leash. However, this should only be attempted in safe, enclosed areas to avoid risk of injury or escape.

What is the best way to address aggression in my Tornjak?

If your Tornjak displays aggression, it is important to seek professional help from a reputable dog trainer or behaviorist who has experience working with aggressive dogs. Avoid punishing or scolding your dog for aggressive behavior as this can make the behavior worse.

What is crate training and how can it help with obedience?

Crate training involves teaching your dog to feel comfortable and secure in a crate, which can be a useful tool for managing behavior and preventing destructive habits. By providing a safe and comfortable space for your Tornjak, you can help them feel more secure and reduce anxiety.

How can I socialize my Tornjak properly?

Socialization involves exposing your Tornjak to a variety of different people, places, and situations in a positive manner. This can help them learn to be comfortable and confident in a range of environments and reduce the risk of fearfulness or aggression.

What is the best way to train my Tornjak to come when called?

Training your Tornjak to come when called involves using rewards-based training to create a positive association with the command, as well as gradually increasing distractions and distance to reinforce the behavior. It is important to never punish or scold your dog for not coming when called.

What is the most common issue with Tornjaks and how can I avoid it?

One common issue with Tornjaks is their tendency to be highly protective and territorial, which can lead to aggressive behavior if not managed properly. To avoid this, it is important to socialize your Tornjak early and often, and seek help from a professional trainer if your dog displays aggressive behavior.