Canine aggression can be a terrifying thing to experience. There are many different types of canine aggression such as dominance aggression, fear aggression and territorial aggression. The highest incidence of aggression occurs between intact males. Then there is aggression between neutered males, spayed females and unsprayed females. Some breeds of dogs seem to be more prone to dominance aggression than others; a few examples of these are poodles, Lhaso Apsos, Springer Spaniels and Doberman Pinschers.
Dogs can also show aggression towards their owners if they feel they are being challenged or if a prized object is being threatened. This prized object or “critical resource” can be a toy, dog bed, food, a sleeping area, a person or anything the dog considers as his. Dominance aggression is one of the most common aggression issues dog owners seek professional help for. Dominance aggression can range from mild to severe and usually begins occurring in a dog at the beginning of adulthood, around the age of two. Treatment requires long term management and professional therapy.
Dominance aggression has its roots in wolves. Wolves are the closest ancestors of domestic dogs and they live in social groups known as packs. Within the pack system there is a social hierarchy or pecking order that dictates the role of each animal in the pack. Dominant animals within the pack have access to resources such as water, food and sleeping areas. The pack system is a dynamic one, not a rigid one and communication between pack members occurs on a continual basis. The animals communicate with dominant and submissive signals and the social hierarchy is fluid, with members constantly challenging for position within the group. When roles are clearly defined within the pack, tension is minimal; the same applies to domestic dogs. When they are in an unstable environment or household, they tend to develop aggressive tendencies.
To determine the type of aggression a dog is displaying it is important to observe the dog closely while it is exhibiting aggression. Dominant aggressive dogs often assume a dominant pose with erect, stiff body posture, stiff tail, raised hair on their backs and a hard stare. Some dogs will snarl, growl, snap and bite while others are silent in their aggression.
Many dogs exhibit a mix of dominant and submissive aggression. These dogs usually assume a fearful posture and do not display classical dominance behavior.
Canine aggression is a behavioral problem that should be taken seriously as it can escalate to dangerous levels if left unaddressed. If your dog shows signs of dominance aggression and you have children, you should never leave your children with the dog unsupervised. Aggression can be treated with the help of a professional along with life-long management.
You can find many informational articles and resources on the internet about canine aggression that can help you understand the reasons behind canine aggression more fully.