Problem Areas Explained
AGGRESSION:
Although different forms of dog aggression have been identified, the reality is dog aggression is not so neatly segregated. It is rare to see a dog with only one type of dog aggression, and an aggressive dog may also have other behavior problems. This can sometimes complicate the diagnosis and treatment.
But more important than understanding the types of dog aggression is understanding exactly what your dog’s triggers are. In other words, what sort of things cause him or her to react aggressively or to become anxious? What are the sequence of events and circumstances that occur before the dog becomes aggressive?
But more important than understanding the types of dog aggression is understanding exactly what your dog’s triggers are. In other words, what sort of things cause him or her to react aggressively or to become anxious? What are the sequence of events and circumstances that occur before the dog becomes aggressive?
Dominance aggression: Dominance aggression is primarily influenced by the genetic make-up of the dog and directed at those perceived as a threat. The characteristics of a dominant dog include arrogance and defiance; it feels capable of defending itself and dealing with any situation. The more successful an aggressive dog is, the more aggressive it becomes. An owner not fully in control of such a dog transmits his anxiety when he becomes nervous and tense. The anxiety transmits to the dog via a change in vocal tones and energy, which is a trigger for the dog to take control. A nervous owner will cause a dominant dog to be aggressive.
Approximately 1 in 5 aggression problems brought to a veterinarian are dominance related. Generally, the belief is the posture of aggression is self-confident, as opposed to a submissive one (fear aggression). It tends to be in response to competitive contexts, dominant-appearing postures or interaction by the owner. However, dogs might be divided into two groups – those that know they are in control (less common) and those that are unsure of their social role and use aggressive behaviors to determine what is expected of them (more common).
Dominance aggression is the dog’s problem and not caused by the response of the owner, although the owner could inadvertently encourage the inappropriate behavior to develop. An association between territorial aggression and dominance-related aggression has been reported.
Approximately 1 in 5 aggression problems brought to a veterinarian are dominance related. Generally, the belief is the posture of aggression is self-confident, as opposed to a submissive one (fear aggression). It tends to be in response to competitive contexts, dominant-appearing postures or interaction by the owner. However, dogs might be divided into two groups – those that know they are in control (less common) and those that are unsure of their social role and use aggressive behaviors to determine what is expected of them (more common).
Dominance aggression is the dog’s problem and not caused by the response of the owner, although the owner could inadvertently encourage the inappropriate behavior to develop. An association between territorial aggression and dominance-related aggression has been reported.
Fear Aggression: Fear aggression is primarily a defensive mechanism; a learned behavior and, as such, is more treatable than dominant aggression. The cause of fear aggression may be lack of proper socialization as a puppy or insecurity; it may be the result of an incident leaving the dog to feel the need to protect itself, perhaps when the owner has failed to do so. The fear of attack may incite a nervous dog to react on sight of other dogs or humans. Being a pack animal, dogs need the protection and security of a pack (you as the owner), so where there is weak leadership, a fearful dog will feel obliged to take responsibility and defend itself. It prefers to first attempt to avoid confrontation and uses growling, barking and body language to persuade the perceived threat to withdraw. Fearful dogs exhibit an exaggerated response to sounds, movement and touch. Other signs include pacing, barking, running away and trembling. If pushed further and cornered, the hysteria may manifest as biting, urinating, defecting, dilation of pupils, increased heart rate and high blood pressure. A fearful dog may seek to warn visitors by barking, nipping, growling or perhaps attacking the victim from behind. All of these signs would be picked up by another dog as a sign of weakness and, as mentioned above, without the protection from within the pack or a strong leader, may incite an attack for fear of being attacked. A nervous, panicked, inexperienced or weak owner will result in the fear aggression becoming more severe over time. A strong, knowledgeable leader who gives the dog a sense of security may remedy the issues to a large extent.
Protective aggression and territorial aggression: It is suggested that protective aggression is first shown at the onset of puberty and is displayed when the dog feels that it has no alternative but to be “protective”. Protective aggression relates to the dog’s perception that his owner is being threatened in some way. It is important to understand this is what the dog perceives, not what we perceive. Again, true protective aggression is when the dog reacts inappropriately and out of context when there is no real threat. Both dominance aggression and fear-related aggression can be components or can be independent of the behavior. Generally speaking, it is thought that the intensity of the territorial or protective drive is inherited, and is augmented through learning.
Some dogs are bred to protect, e.g. German Shepherd Dog and has an inherited ability to protect. An example is when the postman arrives (action), the dog barks (reaction) and (reward) the postman goes away.
Territorial aggression is a learned behavior and often occurs when visitors intrude into a dog’s space. The need to protect – perhaps the dog’s bed, home or other area normally frequented by the dog (this may include areas regularly used for walking or exercising) may result in a show of dog aggression to repel the intruder. Socialization, training and strong leadership skills are essential to prevent this form of aggression.
Some dogs are bred to protect, e.g. German Shepherd Dog and has an inherited ability to protect. An example is when the postman arrives (action), the dog barks (reaction) and (reward) the postman goes away.
Territorial aggression is a learned behavior and often occurs when visitors intrude into a dog’s space. The need to protect – perhaps the dog’s bed, home or other area normally frequented by the dog (this may include areas regularly used for walking or exercising) may result in a show of dog aggression to repel the intruder. Socialization, training and strong leadership skills are essential to prevent this form of aggression.
Possessive dog aggression: Possessive aggression is aggression to affirm ownership of an item, which signals that the dog is confirming its status and rights to that item. When confronted by a rival, perhaps over food or a bone, the dog will stare, growl, bare its teeth prior to attack; the body posture accompanying such a display of dog aggression in order to protect whatever it has of value. It may take possession of a high value item, e.g. a toy, slipper, clothing, etc., then use possession of that item to show the dog aggression towards anyone who goes near. It is the dog’s opportunity to reinforce its pack position above that of the pack member who approaches. This behavior can become a ritual, each time reinforcing its position.
Often the dog will present the object for play, and then strike when the owner reaches for the object. They may solicit attention and then respond to the attention with a challenge. This aggression type may be part of a control complex that can include other kinds of aggression such as owner directed aggression, territorial aggression, etc.
Often the dog will present the object for play, and then strike when the owner reaches for the object. They may solicit attention and then respond to the attention with a challenge. This aggression type may be part of a control complex that can include other kinds of aggression such as owner directed aggression, territorial aggression, etc.
Predatory dog aggression: The basis of predatory aggression is genetics. The aim is to kill, usually small mammals, e.g. rabbits, cats, squirrels. The prey drive is strong within some dog breeds and is replicated by the desire to chase and fetch toys. This form of dog aggression is often difficult to overcome, particularly in rural areas where dogs may be shot when interfering with sheep or other farm animals. Predatory aggression is a dangerous form of behavior because while other forms of aggression serve to increase distance, predatory aggression serves to decrease distance as quickly as possible and kill the prey.
Re-directed dog aggression: This form of aggression occurs when a dog is unable to take out its aggression on the actual object, dog or person that is the cause of fear, anger or territorial notions. As an example, two dogs may be in the garden and an unfamiliar visitor enters the house, causing the dogs may turn on each other. It may be that the frustration generated by not being able to reach the “intruder” spills over into a show of aggression. In such circumstances, anyone seeing the outcome of this frustration would probably not understand that this was displaced aggression, simply because they do not know the underlying cause of the aggressive behavior.
This is a dangerous form of aggression and as such any dogs that are known to re-direct aggression should be well controlled by the owner and, if necessary, muzzled in public areas. A dog on a lead in a public area showing extreme aggression towards another dog or person may ultimately turn its aggression to the owner.
This is a dangerous form of aggression and as such any dogs that are known to re-direct aggression should be well controlled by the owner and, if necessary, muzzled in public areas. A dog on a lead in a public area showing extreme aggression towards another dog or person may ultimately turn its aggression to the owner.
"I have an aggressive dog.... Now what?"
Don't give up hope! The large majority of aggression issues are treatable! “Cured” is the wrong word to use when talking about improving dog aggression because all dogs have the potential to behave aggressively, and you should beware of any trainer who promises a "guaranteed cure". Although generally treatable, some cases of aggression are more difficult than others and take more time to rehabilitate. The key to rehabilitating an aggressive dog is to use the right methods, in the right way. A customized rehabilitation plan for your dog is a must! Remember that there are no "cookie-cutter" or "one size fits all" treatment plans, as each dog and family situation is unique.
BEHAVIORAL ISSUES (NON-AGGRESSION)
Separation Anxiety: Separation anxiety is one of the most difficult behavior problems to deal with in dogs because successful modification relies on people being present at all times during what can be a long training process. It is a hugely important problem to solve, both for dog and owner, as separation anxiety is one of the main reasons why dogs are relinquished to shelters every year. Separation anxiety has many causes, but it is believed that genetics and/or an early history of abandonment can contribute to what can quickly develop into a deeply rooted problem which is highly resistant to change. Before a treatment plan can be designed, it is important to make sure your dog is suffering from anxiety rather than just being a bored dog trying to entertain herself during your absence.
CCD: Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) is very similar to human OCD in that dogs are also compelled to perform repetitive behaviors which eventually take over their lives. CCD is exacerbated by anxiety, frustration and stress but genetics also play a part, as many breeds suffer from specific types of repetitive behavior. This condition can manifest itself in many different ways, each requiring careful consideration when determining how best to try and manage it.
Stress: Coping with new environments and situations is a product of domestication, and most dogs do extremely well adapting to the pressures of domestic life. There are some dogs, however, that find it hard to adjust, and consequently live in a constant state of stress, making life difficult for them and for their owners. Some dogs, like people, are more sensitive to the mental and physical manifestations of stress than others. What might cause sickness in one dog will have no affect on another even when both dogs are exposed to the same stressors. It is important to compile a customized behavior modification plan to best suit your dog's needs.
Fear and Phobias: Fears and phobias are relatively common and can affect dogs of all ages and all breeds. But there is a difference between fear and phobia. Fear is a normal response to an actual or perceived threat or situation, while a phobia is an exaggerated fear response that can completely overwhelm a dog. Unless it is addressed early, the fear becomes all-encompassing and turns into a life-altering phobia.
CCD: Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) is very similar to human OCD in that dogs are also compelled to perform repetitive behaviors which eventually take over their lives. CCD is exacerbated by anxiety, frustration and stress but genetics also play a part, as many breeds suffer from specific types of repetitive behavior. This condition can manifest itself in many different ways, each requiring careful consideration when determining how best to try and manage it.
Stress: Coping with new environments and situations is a product of domestication, and most dogs do extremely well adapting to the pressures of domestic life. There are some dogs, however, that find it hard to adjust, and consequently live in a constant state of stress, making life difficult for them and for their owners. Some dogs, like people, are more sensitive to the mental and physical manifestations of stress than others. What might cause sickness in one dog will have no affect on another even when both dogs are exposed to the same stressors. It is important to compile a customized behavior modification plan to best suit your dog's needs.
Fear and Phobias: Fears and phobias are relatively common and can affect dogs of all ages and all breeds. But there is a difference between fear and phobia. Fear is a normal response to an actual or perceived threat or situation, while a phobia is an exaggerated fear response that can completely overwhelm a dog. Unless it is addressed early, the fear becomes all-encompassing and turns into a life-altering phobia.
NUISANCE BEHAVIORS:
Barking: Dogs that bark excessively cause big problems for their owners. Although the treatment for barking is generally close to the same plan, it is important to determine the cause of your dog's barking, as there are many types - including excitement, anxiety, for attention or as an alert.
Leash Issues: Leash issues are a huge problem for the dog-owning public and a leading culprit for why so many otherwise healthy dogs are doomed to life (or usually more accurately, an early death) in animal shelters. Whether it's simple leash-pulling or more significant leash reactivity and leash aggression, the primary thing to keep in mind is that these issues are almost always preventable and manageable when using the correct training methods.
Jumping: Most dogs jump on people because they are excited and it is an effective means of getting attention, but some dogs jump because they feel uneasy when someone new comes through the door, and jumping is an effective way to cope with that discomfort. Regardless, it is an unacceptable behavior for any dog, and, luckily, one that can be prevented and managed using the correct training techniques.
Begging: Begging at the table is a common complaint, yet many people consistently reinforce this unwanted behavior by feeding their dogs from the table. The good news is that this is almost always a completely human-initiated problem, and therefore you also have the power to regain control of the situation.
Chewing: Most dogs love to chew but destructive chewing directed towards objects other than chew toys Is often a sign of a deeper problem such as separation anxiety. Chewing is a potent stress reliever and releases pleasurable endorphins into the body, while destructive chewing on doors or window frames is a large problem. As with most other behavioral issue, this too can typically be corrected with the proper training.
Counter Surfing: Put yourself in the dog’s paws and place your favorite food on the counter when you are hungry. Now walk past and see if you can resist taking a bite. The most realistic solution to counter surfing is to use a combination of management and training techniques to make it easy for your dog to avoid temptation.
Door Issues: The door is the epicenter of some common nuisance behaviors in dogs, particularly door dashing and unwanted barking. With the correct training and a little patience, these are both behaviors that can be improved and potentially eliminated
Leash Issues: Leash issues are a huge problem for the dog-owning public and a leading culprit for why so many otherwise healthy dogs are doomed to life (or usually more accurately, an early death) in animal shelters. Whether it's simple leash-pulling or more significant leash reactivity and leash aggression, the primary thing to keep in mind is that these issues are almost always preventable and manageable when using the correct training methods.
Jumping: Most dogs jump on people because they are excited and it is an effective means of getting attention, but some dogs jump because they feel uneasy when someone new comes through the door, and jumping is an effective way to cope with that discomfort. Regardless, it is an unacceptable behavior for any dog, and, luckily, one that can be prevented and managed using the correct training techniques.
Begging: Begging at the table is a common complaint, yet many people consistently reinforce this unwanted behavior by feeding their dogs from the table. The good news is that this is almost always a completely human-initiated problem, and therefore you also have the power to regain control of the situation.
Chewing: Most dogs love to chew but destructive chewing directed towards objects other than chew toys Is often a sign of a deeper problem such as separation anxiety. Chewing is a potent stress reliever and releases pleasurable endorphins into the body, while destructive chewing on doors or window frames is a large problem. As with most other behavioral issue, this too can typically be corrected with the proper training.
Counter Surfing: Put yourself in the dog’s paws and place your favorite food on the counter when you are hungry. Now walk past and see if you can resist taking a bite. The most realistic solution to counter surfing is to use a combination of management and training techniques to make it easy for your dog to avoid temptation.
Door Issues: The door is the epicenter of some common nuisance behaviors in dogs, particularly door dashing and unwanted barking. With the correct training and a little patience, these are both behaviors that can be improved and potentially eliminated
There are a multitude of other issues that dog owners can face. In times where busy schedules, long work hours, high population densities and strict laws are commonplace, it is important that pet behavioral problems are addressed early. Pet behavior problems can involve normal behavior patterns that occur inappropriately, or the development of abnormal or aggressive behaviors. Either way, these situations can be distressing for you and for your pet. Thankfully, the majority of these cases can be successfully resolved using obedience training or the appropriate behavior-modification program. The earlier a solution is found, the quicker and easier it will be.
If you have a question regarding any behavior or training problem with your pet, please contact Pawsitive Results today!
If you have a question regarding any behavior or training problem with your pet, please contact Pawsitive Results today!