How to Interpret Dog Aggression

What does your dog's aggression mean?

Everyone loves a friendly pooch but when a dog snarls, growls or snaps, the fun is over. Most people view such behavior as threatening and sometimes, as vicious. However, dogs can't speak; they can only tell you how they feel in a limited number of ways. To understand what an aggressive dog is trying to say, learn some basic canine behaviors.

Instructions

1. Speak firmly when your dog growls at you or another human who tries to make him relocate or approaches his food. Dogs are pack animals and they develop a linear dominance structure. It is normal behavior for a dog who thinks he is the boss to protect his food and turf. Lower your voice and speak slowly. Tell him, "Go," and mean it.

2. Desensitize your dog if he growls or snaps at visitors by introducing them slowly and demanding obedience. A dog that consistently barks at strangers is exhibiting fear aggression. Start by taking him on frequent walks around other people and animals are but keep him at a distance. Over a period of weeks, gradually bring him closer until he accepts strangers in his space.

3. Feed two or more dogs in separate places if aggression is occurring over the food bowl. As pack animals, dogs strive to be the first in line to eat. By placing food in a separate bowl for each dog at mealtime and then removing it immediately after, the food will lose its importance. Also, try feeding a dog that shows food aggression by hand.

4. Exercise a dog that fiercely protects his house or yard. Known as territory aggression, this can be a frightening problem for pedestrians walking by or children on bicycles. Dogs often develop staunch territorial behaviors when bored. Take him on long walks and let the neighbor kids walk him, too.

5. Separate dogs who exhibit "hunting pack" behavior. A dog that is complacent by himself can become aggressive when other dogs start chasing a cat or squirrel. Stop the behavior before it escalates. Domestic dogs who hunt in packs can quickly graduate from animal prey to human prey.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your dog to obedience classes and continue his training all his life.

• If your dog has aggression problems and you do not provide adequate security, you could face criminal charges if he harms another animal or person.

• Never let a dog dominate a person. Make it clear right away that he is at the bottom of the pecking order.

Resources

• Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems
• The Art of Raising a Puppy
• The Dog Whisperer: Beginning and Intermediate Dog Training