Aggressive dogs can certainly be a reflection of their owners, but there are often many other issues that can factor into whether a dog is abnormally aggressive. According to researchers from Michigan State University, dogs with aggressive or anxious temperaments often have owners with negative personality traits.
In the question of “Who's to blame for a dog bite?” the law is clear on the answer. It is never the dog's fault. It is rarely the victim's fault. It is almost certainly the fault of the dog's owner or the person who was supposed to have control of the dog when it attacked.
Most importantly remember that the dog versus owner blame game is a false dilemma. Dog aggression is a complex question. Don't be so quick to judge and blame – whether it be the dog, owner and especially the breed. There's a full history there that can and should be explored to find out what really happened.
The most common causes include conflict aggression, fear-based, defensive aggression, status related aggression, possessive aggression, food guarding aggression and redirected aggression.
Once you've averted the situation, back away slowly from the dog. But, do not turn your back! It's important that you remain aware where the dog is at all times, as they can approach very fast.
Though many dogs maintain a cheerful disposition throughout their lives, a combination of factors related to aging can lead to “grumpy dog syndrome,” the unofficial term for the phenomenon of a dog exhibiting an increase in aggression due to the combined effects of aging.
Aggression tends to get worse over time and can lead to serious injuries to you, your dog or other people and pets so getting help is essential. Your vet will be able to rule out any medical causes for the change in your dog's behaviour.
Instead of screaming, or yelling at the dog, speak to him in a soothing tone as you slowly back away. Don't make direct eye contact. Staring in the eyes of an aggressive dog may prompt him to attack. If the dog gets too close or lunges at you, place a jacket, handbag or backpack, etc., between you and the dog.
An aggressive dog poses a danger to us and other humans. It tells us the dog is unhappy. Even in a mild form or in a small dog, aggression typically signals the dog is tense and not enjoying his life at that moment – or, sometimes, not at all.
If you're beating your dog, you're not addressing the problem, you're teaching them to see you as a source of pain. Whether the reason for punishment is excessive barking, peeing in the house or snatching food off your counter, punishment in the form of spanking is only going to make matters worse.
Guilty looks signify the pet's fear, concern, or anxiety in response to a potential confrontation. Research suggests that dogs with a guilty look do not show evidence that they are aware of having engaged in misbehavior. One would not experience guilt if one were unaware that a crime had been committed.
Most dogs assume a neutral or submissive role toward people, but some dogs will challenge their owners for dominance. A dominant dog may stare, bark, growl, snap, or even bite when you give him a command or ask him to give up a toy, treat, or resting place.
Can a Dog That Bites Ever Be Trusted Again? With enough patience and care, many dogs can learn how to manage their stress levels more effectively. As you build better communication skills with your dog, you'll also start to rebuild your trust with them.
Once a dog has bitten, she is more likely to bite again because she has learned it works for her and stops the unwanted interaction. So, dog guardians need to take preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of a bite. You can start by educating those around you to treat your pet with respect.
Studies show, for example, that due to higher testosterone levels, intact male dogs between eighteen months and two years of age have a greater incidence of aggression than females or neutered males.
Punishing your dog for aggressive behavior usually backfires and can escalate the aggression. 3 If you respond to a growling dog by hitting, yelling, or using some other aversive method, the dog may feel the need to defend itself by biting you.
Dog aggression can be related to fear, prey drive, socialization issues, and guarding territory, among other things. Most aggressive behavior in dogs stems from fear and anxiety, rather than the desire to hurt others. A certified animal behaviorist can help you safely deal with your dog's aggressive behavior.
Growling is an emotional response. It is not a "disobedient" behavior. You cannot punish an emotion out of a dog (or a human). Growling is just your dog's way of trying to tell you something important, and you should listen and genuinely thank your dog for the honest feedback.
Your pup is using growling as a way to ask you to leave her alone; it's not an attempt to assert authority or alpha status over you. Never punish or suppress growling. If you teach your dog not to growl, you'll eliminate her normal warning method, and then she'll likely go straight to biting.