An aggressive dog can take many forms. Throughout my time as a dog trainer, I have seen the impact an aggressive dog can have on families especially when children are involved. I would urge you to take dog aggression seriously but rest assured with proper management, it is possible to keep an aggressive dog.*

Key takeaways

• Physical signs can be used to identify an aggressive dog
• Private training can ensure proper management of an aggressive dog.
• Muzzles are a vital tool for dogs displaying aggression
• Aggression in dogs can take many forms
• Resource guarding is a form of aggression often displayed in dogs.

What could an aggressive dog mean for me and my family?

In this article, I will cover the three main forms of aggression I see in dogs, outlining the severity (or not) and options for coping as a family.

Dog Aggression

Dog aggression can be identified by several key physical signs. A dog that poses a risk of aggression towards another dog may fixate, bear its teeth, growl, or even lunge at the other dog. It is important to recognise these signs early and attempt to remove the dog from the situation. A dog that is reactive towards other dogs may display similar signs but often without the intention to cause harm.

I would recommend a muzzle if your aggressive dog is needing to be around others.

What can I do fix aggression in my dog? 

With specialised, one-on-one training advice, management is possible in the right environment. However, if you are looking to introduce a second dog in your home or have this dog join a pre-existing dog, please ensure you have sought the help of a qualified dog training professional.

Resource Guarding

What is Resource Guarding?

Resource guarding occurs when a dog protects its most valuable “assets” from others. This can manifest through growling, moving the item away, or creating a physical barrier with their body. The “assets” in question are the resources that the dog does not want another dog, animal, or human to access.

Can Resource Guarding Be Resolved?

While management strategies can be implemented to address resource guarding, completely eliminating the behaviour is usually unlikely. I have discussed management techniques for resource guarding in several additional blog posts.

Resource Guarding and Children

Toddlers & Adopting a Rescue Dog

Basic Dog Obedience

Aggressive Dog: Human Aggression

What is considered human aggression in a dog?

Put simply, any dog who has attempted to or caused harm to a human is considered as ‘human aggressive.’ It is important to recognise the behaviour is very severe and not breed-specific.

Can this be fixed?

Human aggression in dogs is best evaluated on a case-by-case basis with a qualified Dog Trainer in a one-on-one setting.

Aggression in dogs can be frightening for many families and individuals and we are here to help get the best outcome for you and your dog. Book a dog training session online today to get started.

*information provided is general advice for blog narrative purposes, it does not take into account individual circumstances and should not be used in place of individual advice with a Qualified Dog Trainer.

This article explores the many ways you can explore with your dog outside the home.  For more help book an In-home or On-site training session, tailored to the needs of your dog and your family.