There are several causes of aggressive behavior in dogs. It may be due to a problem related to dominance between you and the dog, or it may be a trigger that has never been properly treated during puppyhood – for example, an attack by another dog. Whatever the cause of aggression your dog, however, you need to remedy it quickly. Agressive behavior that’s allowed to go on too long can lead to both scary and dangerous behavior.

What Causes Aggressive Behavior in Dogs?

As early as 6 weeks of age, dog aggression can start to rear it’s ugly head. This is a critical time for a puppy, when it must be socialized with other dogs and receive the necessary training to prevents it from biting others. This socialization period normally goes on until the dog reaches 14 weeks but it may extend even further.

Here’s What This Means to You…

First, never separate a puppy away from its littermates before 8 weeks of age.

An eight to ten week old puppy should never be disciplined harshly and should always be treated gently.

Hitting, yelling or other severe punishment at this tender age can, as time goes on, lead to aggressive behavior in dogs.

Your dog must have been properly socialized with people and other dogs when he reaches 14 weeks to avoid problems and future attacks.

Aggressive behavior in dogs can be traced back to a number of factors, the most obvious being genetic. That is, certain dog breeds are known to be mroe aggressive than others. But your dog’s breed is by no means a guarantee that he will be aggressive or gentle. Also, if your dog has not been spayed or neutered he or she will be more prone to aggression. But environment is by far the most critical of all factors that contribute to aggression in dogs. If a dog is raised in a harsh environment, not taught to get along with people and other dogs, or has been attacked and frightened by people or fellow dogs you’ll be much more likely to see aggression in that dog as it grows up.

Who’s the Leader of Your Pack?

Canine aggression can also develop from the need to establish a pack hierarchy. Biting, aggressive stances, and other aggressive behaviors are usually the dog’s way of testing out his or her dominance. Just as you do with young children, you need to establish who’s boss while your dog is still a pup. And be sure to maintain your alpha position through his adolescence or he will take over your household!

A Bit of Dog Psychology

Dogs establish what we call “guardable resources” in their lives. Their food, their toys, their territories are carefully guarded against others who might take them. Your dog may come to think of YOU as a guardable resource as well. After all, you’re an important source of attention, affection and security. That explains why a dog may show aggressive behavior toward anyone who tries to get too close to you, even a spouse. Establinshing yourself as the leader of the pack makes it less likely your dog will think he or she owns you!

Can We Stop Aggressive Behavior in Dogs Who Are Already Grown?

After age 14 months or when your dog reaches sexual maturity (and especially after spaying or neutering), aggressive behavior is a dangerous problem. If your dog lashes out you must correct him immediately. For starters you must be sure he understands who’s boss. If you haven’t established yourself as the pack leader you must do it now or you’ll never get your dog under control. Never reward your dog for aggressive behavior even if it happens when he or she is frightened.

Train your dog so he follows your commands. Establish a regular schedule for meals and exercise. Have a strong authorit figure in your household for your dog. If you show deference to your dog or let him or her have his way around the house, she’ll show more aggression toward others.

The Defensive Dog

If your dog is on the defensive, he may try to lash out at a person out of fear. A defensive-aggressive dog has probably not been properly socialized. Keep your pet away from young children (they often see kids as a direct threat) and enroll in some training or with a dog behaviourist. That will help get your dog to gradually acclimate to a social environment.

Aggressive behavior in dogs is a very serious and common problem that many owners share, but it can be controlled, even as your dog ages. If your dog’s aggression ever progresses to violence, consider hiring a professional to intervene before someone gets hurt and that your dog is held liable.