Understanding dog behavior can be a vexing endeavor. After all, our pooches can’t communicate with us using ordinary speech. Instead, we have to interpret what they mean through their attitudes, barks, and body language. Decoding why your dog behaves the way they do ultimately depends on their general disposition, how old they are, their past, and if they were properly socialized.
So What is Dog Aggression?
Most of the time, everyone automatically assumes that an aggressive dog is one that bites. Growls can also indicate that they are angry or afraid. Others lash out by attacking strange dogs or unfamiliar people. Be vigilant about your dog’s triggers – that way, you can avoid sticky situations with your neighbors. Plus, you’ll have a better idea of how to correct them.
Telltale Signs of Belligerence
Sudden onset aggression syndrome is definitely worrisome. Luckily, this rage-related behavioral issue is pretty rare. In any case, be on the lookout for these red flags that your dog is mad:
- Stiffened posture
- Ears pinned back
- Growling or snarling
- Baring their teeth
- Biting
Advice for Curbing Their Bad Behavior
Before you can teach your dog better manners, you need to figure out what makes them act out. Without adequate socialization or dog behavior training, they can be nasty to others – even their fur-siblings that belong to their household! So, what are you supposed to do? For starters, discourage their dominant behavior. Then watch them for resource protection tendencies (are they food-aggressive or possessive of their toys?) Do what you can to socialize them better. Exposure time can go a long way – give your puppy some people and animal friends that they love to hang out with! Positive reinforcement training is a good idea, too. If you’ve heard of so-called “puppy boot camp,” then putting them in school is probably for the best.
We Would Love the Opportunity to Care for Your Furry Friends!
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold areas. Our goal is to educate clients on their pets’ needs and understand the importance of individualized veterinary care to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets. We strive to provide you with unparalleled services, including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms and after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!