Dogs are our most beloved pets. They are loyal companions who offer us friendship and affection, always there for us unwaveringly through the good times and the bad.
However, it’s always worth remembering that dogs are animals, and as such their behaviour can be at odds with what we find acceptable. Aggression is a natural instinct in dogs, but when it becomes problematic and interferes with our lives and our relationships, owners must take steps to address the issue. We’ve listed some of the most common types of dog aggression and discussed strategies for nipping them in the bud. Read on to find out more.
Resource Aggression
First on our list of types of dog aggression is resource aggression. Also referred to as resource guarding and possession aggression, resource aggression is when a dog displays aggressive behaviour, such as growling, snapping, and biting, over things like food or toys.
Resource aggression is an instinctive behaviour that dogs have inherited from their wild ancestors. In the wild, resources are scarce, so animals need to guard what they have in order to survive. Some level of resource guarding is to be expected in dogs, but when their behaviour becomes overly aggressive and threatening, owners must take action.
If your dog is aggressive over their food, you must ensure they have a quiet corner to eat at their own pace and not feel threatened. Give your dog space to eat. Dogs that come from large litters or have lived with other dogs can learn to protect what is theirs.
Feed your dog nutritious filling food. Many processed dog foods quite simply leave some dogs always wanting more. Scatter chopped-up fruit and vegetables in the garden if possible This changes your dog’s perception that its complete food source comes from one bowl.
Fear Aggression
One of the most common types of dog aggression is fear aggression. Studies have shown that fearful dogs are five times more likely to display aggressive behaviour than non-fearful dogs.
Fear aggression can cause growling, barking, and biting, and body language can appear aggressive and confrontational. A range of different things can trigger fear aggression, including other dogs, people, loud household appliances such as hoovers, and sudden unexpected noises.
Your dog’s individual personality plays a big part in fear aggression. It is the nervous timid dogs that tend to exhibit these traits
The most effective way to treat fear aggression is through the owner handling their dog in a calm consistent manner and introducing some basic rules and boundaries in their life. Dogs are pack animals and instinctively they need to understand their place in the pack hierarchy Early socialisation and exposure to a range of different stimuli is good. Gradually socialise your dog from a young age to teach them that other people and pets are not a threat.
Territorial Aggression
Popular media has long depicted dogs and postmen as mortal enemies. As any dog owner will tell you, this trope has its basis in reality. In fact, Royal Mail report that dogs attack approximately 32 postal workers every week.
Much like other types of dog aggression, territorial aggression is an inherited trait that stems from dog ancestors, who would have had to guard their territory against resource rivals and potential predators. In domestic dogs, this can manifest as aggressive behaviour whenever a stranger or another animal approaches the home or property.
This can be one of the most disruptive types of dog aggression and can even have serious consequences should your dog bite a guest or visitor. This means it is extremely important to nip this behaviour in the bud.
Obedience is key when addressing territorial behaviour issues. You need to look at the situations that trigger the territorial behaviour. If your dog sits at the window and barks excessively, then remove them from the back of the settee. If your dog rushes to the door barking aggressively, teach them to always sit behind you in their safe spot while you answer the door.
The majority of times your dog behaves in this way means they are actually scared. You must teach them that it’s not their job to protect the window and door. If your dog is acting aggressively towards a visitor, you may need to get professional help to learn how to control the situation. If your dog barks through the garden gate it may be worth screening the gate from the road.
Pain & Disease Aggression
Some types of dog aggression are caused by external triggers, while others are the result of internal factors.
Dogs that are experiencing pain from a wound or internal injury may display aggressive behaviours when touched or approached. This is a defensive reaction designed to protect the dog from further injury or potential worsening of their condition.
Owners must be able to differentiate between types of dog aggression. Pain aggression can appear similar to behavioural aggression, but there are key differences that can help owners tell them apart.
If your dog is suddenly displaying aggressive behaviour despite never having done so in the past and with no apparent triggers, this could indicate that they are in pain. Check for cuts and injuries but remember that the pain could also be from an internal issue.
Certain types of dog aggression can also be caused by diseases and conditions, such as hypothyroidism and some neurological conditions.
If you believe your dog is displaying signs of pain or disease aggression, you must take them to a vet as soon as possible.
Conclusion
There are various types of dog aggression, each triggered by different factors and stimuli. If you want to address your dog’s aggressive behaviour, identifying the root cause is essential. While there are steps you can take at home to nip aggressive behaviour in the bud, sometimes there is no substitute for professional guidance, so contact Pawsitive Solutions at 07842 050 998 or at enquiries@pawsitivesolutions.com to get the advice you need today.