Aggression

While aggressive displays are a natural part of how dogs communicate, they become a serious concern when they pose a threat to your household or community. Aggression is rarely "random"; it is almost always a reaction to a specific trigger.

The Most Common Types of Aggression

Understanding the why is the only way to choose the right training path:

• Fear-Based (The Most Common): This is a "fight or flight" response. When a dog feels cornered or threatened by people, strange noises, or other animals, they may lunge or snap to create distance and stay safe.
• Resource Guarding (Possessive): This occurs when a dog feels the need to "protect" what they value most - be it a food bowl, a favorite toy, or even their spot on the sofa.
• Social or Status-Based: Often seen in dogs asserting themselves within a group, this is an attempt to establish boundaries or control over their environment and social circle.
• The Hunting Instinct (Predatory): Common in breeds with high "prey drive," this isn't emotional anger; it's the biological urge to chase and catch moving objects or smaller animals.
• Pain-Induced: Even the gentlest dog can snap if they are hurting. If aggression appears suddenly, it is often a sign of underlying physical discomfort or injury.