A Brief Guide to Aggression in Pet Dogs

Aggression in dogs is the number one dog behavioral problem reported by vets in the U.S. It can be defined as behavior that threatens another creature. Pet parents often have to consult vets and animal behavior experts to help manage any signs of aggression in their pet dogs.

At the outset we must be aware for the sake of information, understanding and also pet insurance that different dog breeds have different thresholds when it comes to aggression. Some pet dog breeds are simply more aggressive than other dog breeds. It does not make these dog breeds bad. It only means that you need to weigh your options and consider compatibility with these breeds before adopting one as a pet. Some dog breeds such as rottweilers and terriers are considered aggressive. Dogs from many breeds served for protection of property and aiding their masters in hunting. Today these breeds may not be used for these purposes; however, the aggressive streak remains.

Let us understand the factors that you need to consider when living with a pet that needs treatment or care for aggressive behavior.

• The size and breed of the dog – Size plays a role; a larger dog is capable of inflicting greater damage and if it is from an aggressive breed then the risk of attack is higher.
• Past record of aggressive behavior – Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior will make it difficult for you to acquire pet insurance; if you do the premium will be higher.
• Adult or pup – This is a crucial factor as younger dogs are far more likely to respond to treatment and let go of their aggressive tendencies.
• Degree of aggression – The degree of aggression and the severity of attacks has to be considered; especially if you are living with children. Dogs that bare their teeth and growl but stop short of actually attacking are safer to live with.

Here are some causes of aggressive behavior in dogs –

Protective aggression behavior – In this form of aggressive behavior a pet dog becomes aggressive when protecting a litter of puppies or even a young vulnerable member of the family. This appears appealing and in line with the beautiful devoted nature of dogs but it can become problematic when the dog starts barring members of the family and known friends from approaching the human child or litter. Protective aggression is displayed by both male and female dogs.

Possessive aggression behavior – This behavior in dogs is not very difficult to identify. Animals have been programmed to be extremely possessive about things that have a direct bearing on their survival and the future of their species. Dogs are no exception to this rule. Some dogs can be extremely possessive about their food whereas some will guard the bones that they hide. Yet some pet dogs may charge you if you approach their water bowl.

Territorial aggression behavior – Dogs are territorial animals and mark their territory. Again, this is a trait carried over from their ancestors. Territorial behavior of dogs is an asset and has helped them become a part of our world. However, it can become a problem when the animal is unable to distinguish between friend and foe and treats everybody as an intruder that has to be chased away. This form of aggression can be displayed towards humans and other animals. It is not gender-specific; both male and female dogs can be aggressive in defending their turf.

Defensive aggression behavior – This type of aggressive behavior is displayed when the pet dog decides to attack instead of retreating when it feels threatened. The driving force behind this attitude is fear. A pet dog in this frame of mind may charge at a person and most probably attack unless you retreat quickly. If you retreat, the animal will discontinue its threatening aggression and utilize the time to create a safe distance between the two of you.

Mating aggression behavior – Pet dogs that have not been spayed or neutered will display this type of aggression when they are sexually mature and the female is in heat. So if you have an intact male pet dog at home; he may get aggressive towards other animals even when a female is not present. The situation can get out of hand if you have several pet dogs; males and females together.

Pain aggression behavior – This is one of those few dog aggression behaviors that are displayed by puppies as well. Usually, most forms of aggression are seen in adult dogs but a puppy in pain will turn and bite. The pain can be due to an injury or an infection. The animal is liable to experience sudden discomfort if handled when in pain and it will react instinctively. Another reason for pain-related aggression is unskilled handling at the veterinary surgeon’s office.

The management of canine aggression is a collaborative effort involving the pet owner, vet, and animal behavior experts. As a pet owner you have to understand the root cause of your pet dog’s aggression – for example it can be the result of a medical condition or one of the causes mentioned above in this article. You can find out the cause by a process of observation and elimination. A vet will help you rule out or ascertain a medical reason behind aggressive behavior.

You can also hire a dog trainer to help your pet dog get over behavioral issues that are resulting in aggression. You can do it yourself too by getting in touch with pet parents that have faced similar problems. Whatever you do, try your best to take the path which necessitates the least amount of force. Our pets are totally dependent on us and we need to be patient with them and sensitive to their conditions about which there may be little that they can do on their own. With patience and skill, it is possible to retrain aggressive dogs. Keep in mind that a dog’s temperament is a product of his environment and his genes. You have to ensure that the pet dog is given an environment most conducive to his healthy physical and mental growth.