Aggressive Dog Behavior

There are a variety of factors which cause aggressive dog behavior. It might be something that was never dealt with from when the dog was a puppy, like an attack by another dog. Or it might be related to a dominance issue between you and the dog. No matter what the cause is, it needs to be addressed as soon as possible. If not resolved quickly, the results of prolonged aggression can be scary as well as dangerous.

The Source of Aggressive Dog Behavior

Aggression in dogs can start when they are as young as 6 weeks. This is an important age where the puppy should be exposed to other dogs and given the proper training to stop it from biting people. This period of socialization should last until the dog is 14 weeks old and can even go beyond that.

This can mean several things. Firstly, never separate the puppy from its litter before it is 8 weeks old. Make sure the dog is treated very gently between 8 and 10 weeks and never use any harsh discipline during this period. Hitting, yelling or any other such punishments at a young age can breed aggressive dog behavior over time.

A dog should be properly socialized with other people and dogs by the time he reaches 14 weeks of age to avoid any further aggression issues.

Actual aggression can be triggered by any number of factors. Heredity and genetics play a part – some breeds are more aggressive than others. However this is not a hard and fast rule. Also, dogs that have not been sprayed or neutered are more prone to aggressive behavior.

However, the most important factor that influences dog behavior is their environment. A dog that has poor living conditions, no socialization, harsh masters, or has been attacked or frightened by another dog is far more likely to be aggressive as it grows older.

Aggression can also grow from the need to establish a pack order. Biting, posturing and other aggressive tendencies are often the result of the dog testing the environment for dominance. You will need to establish your dominance at an early age and keep that position throughout the dog’s adolescent life. This will ensure the dog doesn’t get a chance to take control of the household.
Stopping and Controlling Aggressive Dog Behavior

If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior after 14 months of age, when it has reached sexual maturity (especially after it has been altered) the problem should be addressed immediately.

Make sure you have established yourself as the pack leader. Do not reward your dog for aggressive behavior, especially if it is scared.

Train your dog to respond to your commands and control walking and feeding times. Ensure your dog can look to you as the strong leader of the house. If you defer to your dog or allow it to take liberties inside your home it will most certainly exhibit stronger aggression toward others.

If your dog is defensive-aggressive it may strike out at a person in fear. This is a sign that the dog has not been properly socialized. Keep the dog away fr