Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can also show feelings of aggression towards other dogs and humans. Dogs can become so aggressive as to growl, show fierceness and sometimes, bite. However, there is always a reason behind these feelings of aggression.
- Dog Aggressiveness Tips
One of the most difficult problems for any dog owner to face is aggression. It is a dangerous behavior problem that can cause injury to humans or other animals. Snarling, growling, snapping and biting are valid forms of communication in a dog's mind....
- How To Deal With Dogs That Are Aggressive Towards Other Dogs
When you dog is aggressive toward other dogs, what is actually being displayed is a form of communication. If you see your dog baring its teeth, or growling at other dogs, as opposed to just barking, your dog is making it clear that the situation is...
- What Causes Leash Aggression In Dogs
By Linda Cole We've all seen the dog that's pulling on his leash, lunging and barking at other dogs as they walk by. His owner appears to be just as frustrated as the dog. Leash aggression is a common behavior problem created by us when we don't...
- How To Deal With Food Aggression In Pets
By Linda Cole You may have a loving pet who would never do anything to hurt a family member – as long as no one touches his food. A food aggressive dog or cat is more apt to be given to a shelter or put down because their owner didn't know how to...
- The Difference Between Dog Aggression And Protection
By Linda Cole My Terrier mix Kelly (pictured) is my protector. It's been a challenge teaching her it's alright if a family member, friend or my other pets want to approach me. I have no problem with her actions if I need protection and she is...
Dogs
How to Deal with Aggressive Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can also show feelings of aggression towards other dogs and humans. Dogs can become so aggressive as to growl, show fierceness and sometimes, bite. However, there is always a reason behind these feelings of aggression.It is worth noting that dogs will often show warning signs first before resorting to extreme behavior. Therefore, humans can avoid dangerous situations by learning how to read signals of dog aggression.
But first let’s talk about the possible reasons of aggressive behavior in dogs.
What Causes Dog Aggression?
There are many possible reasons why a dog can become aggressive. Fear and anxiety are common causes of aggression. Boredom may also cause a dog to lose its calmness.
Dogs who feel threatened or feel like their personal space is being invaded can also become agitated. Traumatic circumstances that a dog may have experienced can result to aggression too. This is true especially with dogs who have been abandoned or have been treated cruelly by their former owners.
Then again, a dog in pain can also become aggressive. For instance, a dog may snarl at a human who is trying put on a leash and collar. While other dogs may just yelp or scream in pain, some dogs may be startled with the pain and may growl or even bite, unintentionally. Instead of punishing the dog right away, it is recommended to see a vet and have your dog go through physical examination (x-ray, physical check-up, etc.)
If you think that your dog shows aggressive behavior, don’t make conclusions right away. Instead, evaluate the dog’s background, the environment and the dog’s personality to determine the real cause of the problem.
Warning Signs of Dog Aggression
Unusual breathing. A dog that feels threatened or pressured can change its normal breathing pattern. Watch a calm dog and you’ll see that its breathing is obvious through the movement of its rib cages. If a dog is breathing slowly or is holding his breath, it must be observing movements around him or is giving a warning signal.
Body movement. Rapid movements or a complete absence of movement can both be signs of aggression. If a dog is uneasy or is unmoving, it can suddenly shift its gear and explode.
The expression of the eyes. Anxiety, fear, or stress can be seen from the eyes. If a dog looks away or is staring intently, it must be trying to tell something to avoid any dramatic confrontation.
Tension in the mouth. A dog may show signs of fear, anxiousness or stress when its lips tighten. Other possible warnings signs of anxiety or aggression are changes in the whiskers, clenched toes, and increased tension in both facial and body muscles. The more obvious signs are barking, snarling, and growling.
Using harsh words or inflicting physical pain to correct a dog’s aggressive behavior is discouraged as such treatment can only worsen a dog’s fear and provoke an even more aggressive behavior. The best way to handle the situation is to get yourself away from the scene as calm as possible. Avoid any movement that can trigger or provoke the dog’s feelings. Immediately seek help from a professional dog trainer or a vet to help your dog cope with whatever causes his aggression.
- Dog Aggressiveness Tips
One of the most difficult problems for any dog owner to face is aggression. It is a dangerous behavior problem that can cause injury to humans or other animals. Snarling, growling, snapping and biting are valid forms of communication in a dog's mind....
- How To Deal With Dogs That Are Aggressive Towards Other Dogs
When you dog is aggressive toward other dogs, what is actually being displayed is a form of communication. If you see your dog baring its teeth, or growling at other dogs, as opposed to just barking, your dog is making it clear that the situation is...
- What Causes Leash Aggression In Dogs
By Linda Cole We've all seen the dog that's pulling on his leash, lunging and barking at other dogs as they walk by. His owner appears to be just as frustrated as the dog. Leash aggression is a common behavior problem created by us when we don't...
- How To Deal With Food Aggression In Pets
By Linda Cole You may have a loving pet who would never do anything to hurt a family member – as long as no one touches his food. A food aggressive dog or cat is more apt to be given to a shelter or put down because their owner didn't know how to...
- The Difference Between Dog Aggression And Protection
By Linda Cole My Terrier mix Kelly (pictured) is my protector. It's been a challenge teaching her it's alright if a family member, friend or my other pets want to approach me. I have no problem with her actions if I need protection and she is...