There are numerous possible causes of aggressive behavior in dogs. It may be as a result of dominance related issue between your dog, or it may be a trigger that was never properly handled from puppyhood – for example, a panic attack with a different dog. Whatever causes your canine’s aggression, however, you have to address it as soon as you possibly can. The outcomes of prolonged aggression could be not just scary, but dangerous otherwise quickly come to the task.
The origin of Aggressive Behavior in Dogs
Dog aggression can begin as early as about six weeks old, an important age whenever a puppy ought to be socialized along with other dogs and because of the necessary training that keeps them from biting others. This era of socialization lasts before the dog turns 14 weeks old and may extend even more beyond that.
What this means is a number of things. First, never have a puppy from its litter before 2 months old. Never use harsh discipline using the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and ensure your dog is extremely gently treated for the reason that time. Hitting, yelling, or any other harsh punishments at an early age can breed aggressive behavior in dogs with time.
A dog needs to have been properly socialized with people and other dogs by the time he reached 14 weeks to avoid any future aggression issues.
Actual aggression could be triggered by a variety of factors. Heredity and genetics are extremely factors – some breeds could be more aggressive than the others – but it’s in no way a tough fast rule. Additionally, dogs that have not been neutered or spayed tend to be more vulnerable to aggressive tendencies.
Undoubtedly, however, the most crucial element in creating aggressive behavior in dogs is the environment. Your dog which has poor living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that’s been frightened or attacked by another dog is much more apt to be aggressive because it ages.
Aggression can grow from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies are often the result of a dog testing for dominance. You’ll need to establish dominance at a young age and maintain that position throughout the dog’s adolescence to ensure it doesn’t get a chance to take control of the household.
Stopping and Controlling Aggressive Behavior in Dogs
In case your dog exhibits aggressive behavior after 14 months old when it’s reached sexual maturity, especially once it has been altered, you need to address the issue immediately. First, be sure you established yourself because of the pack leader. Don’t reward your pet for aggressive behavior, even when it’s scared (particularly in this example).
Train your pet to reply to your commands, control feeding and walking times, and ensure your dog includes a strong leader in the home. Should you defer towards the dog or let it take liberties in your house, it’ll exhibit stronger aggression toward others.
In case your dog is defensive-aggressive, they might strike out in a part of fear. These dogs might not have been properly socialized. Have them from young children (that they could see as direct threats) and attend an exercise session or behaviorist who is able to slowly acclimate your dog to some social atmosphere.
Aggressive behavior in dogs is a huge problem that many owners have, but it can be controlled, even as your dog gets older. If your aggression ever advances to violence, consider hiring a professional to intervene before someone gets hurt and your dog is held responsible.
If you currently have a German Shepherd or are thinking of getting one let us know in the comments section below. Also, how was your experience with aggressive behavior with your pet? While most German Shepherds can be trained (and here is an additional article that can help – Aggression in German Shepherd dogs) let our community know what steps, if any, you had to take to train your dog!
