Understanding and Treating Canine Aggression

Grumpy little dog in a colorful backgroundOne of the worst scenarios for dog owners is knowing their cherished pet is prone to biting or other forms of aggression. Canine aggression is cause for concern and can result in one of the thousands of dog bite incidents that occur each year. Untreated, canine aggression can pose serious risks to the dogs themselves and other animals and people.

Pets living with behavioral problems typically suffer from fear, anxiety, and issues stemming from early development (e.g., lack of training and socialization). To effectively treat canine aggression, it’s imperative to understand the root causes.

Triggers and Underlying Problems

Aggression comes in many forms, including snapping, biting, chronic barking, resource guarding, and physical attacks. Some dogs target only other dogs or animals, while others may fear children or strangers. Continue…