SOME COMMON TRIGGERS FOR DOGS AGGRESSION

As pet parents it is understable to be concerned about your pet’s aggressive behaviour. Aggression in dogs can be seen in the form of barking, biting, growling, snarling or lunging. Aggressive behaviour can be treated only when we understand the factors that caused it. The main reason for aggression is fear, but there are also other factors that occasionally cause aggressive behaviour. Once you understand the cause it is easy to treat and modify aggressive behaviour.

The following are the common triggers for aggression in dogs:

• Small children:  Children are fast and unpredictable. This can lead to negative reaction in some dogs. So, if your dog is not child friendly then it is best to keep children away from them.
• Bikes, skateboards and scooters:  Fast moving objects that your dog is seeing for the first time can scare him. Also, a lot of dogs get excited by seeing moving wheels as it incites their preying drive so they tend to chase after the vehicle and try to attack the driver.
• Getting close to the dog:  Touching a dog when he is not prepared may drive him to snap or bark at you. He may also try to bite you. So no one should approach a dog directly. Hugging or kissing your dog when he is not comfortable should be avoided.
• Cornering your dog:  Blocking your dog’s way when he wants to get away can make him react negatively. The only thing he can do is to turn back and fight.
• Harsh punishment:  Shouting, hitting or harshly correcting your dog can make him act negatively as he is only trying to defend himself. Correcting your dog harshly is not an effective way to discipline him.       
• Being threatened by other dogs:  If other dogs bark or chase your dog, he may feel threatened and will defend himself. So, try to avoid taking your dog to areas or parks that have such reactive dogs.
• Handling:  If your dog is not used to veterinary examination, nail clipping or grooming it can trigger aggression. Be sure you make him slowly get used to being handled.
• Defending his territory:  A dog can turn aggressive if strangers and other dogs come to his home or touch his belongings.  

Aggression is a serious behavioural problem which needs to be tackled sensitively and effectively. So, you need to seek professional help by contacting a trainer who will help in behavioural modification. It is also advisable to consult with your vet or a behaviourist to rule out any medical condition that could cause aggressive behaviour.

Happy parenting!