Copyright (c) 2010 Lena Carlson

There are various reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. It could be due to a dominance related issue between you and the dog, or it may be a trigger that was never correctly handled from puppyhood - for example, an attack by a different dog. Whatever is causing your dog's aggression, you have to tackle it as soon as possible. The results of prolonged aggression can be not just scary, but dangerous if not promptly taken to task.

There are many reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. It could be due to a dominance related issue between you and the dog, or it may be a trigger that was never properly dealt with from puppyhood - for instance, an attack by a different dog. Whatever is causing your dog's aggression, it's essential to deal with it as soon as possible. The results of long term aggression can be not just frightening, but dangerous if not immediately taken to task.

The Source of Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

Dog aggression can begin as young as 6 weeks old, an important age when a puppy needs to be socialized with other dogs and given the necessary training that keeps them from biting others. This period of socialization lasts until the dog turns 14 weeks of age and can extend even further beyond that.

This means a number of things. To begin with, never take a puppy away from its litter before 8 weeks of age. Never use harsh discipline with the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and ensure your dog is very gently treated in that time. Hitting, yelling or other harsh punishments at a young age can breed aggressive behavior in dogs over time.

A dog needs to have been correctly socialized with people and other dogs by the time it reachs 14 weeks to avoid any possible aggression issues.

Real aggression may be triggered by any number of factors. Heredity and genetics are indeed factors - various breeds are typically more aggressive than others - but it is certainly not a hard fast rule. Furthermore, dogs that have not been de-sexed or spayed are more prone to aggressive tendencies.

By far, however, the most crucial factor in establishing aggressive behavior in dogs is their environment. A dog that has inadequate living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that has been frightened or attacked by another dog is way more likely to be aggressive as it ages.

Aggression can grow from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies tend to be the result of a dog testing for dominance. You'll have to establish dominance from a young age and uphold that position throughout the dog's adolescence to make sure it does not get a possible opportunity to take control of the household.

How to Stop and Control Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

If your dog displays aggressive behavior after 14 months of age, when it has reached sexual maturity, particularly when it has been altered, it is advisable to address the problem right away. First, ensure you have established yourself as the pack leader or Alpha Dog. Don't reward your dog for aggressive behavior, even if it is scared (particularly in this case).

Train your dog to respond to your commands, control feeding and walking times, and make sure your dog has a strong leader in the home. When you defer to your dog or allow it to take liberties in your home, it is going to exhibit stronger aggression toward others.

If your dog is defensive-aggressive, they could strike out at a person in fear. These dogs might not have been properly socialized. Keep them away from young children (which they might perceive as direct threats) and go to a training session or behaviorist who can gradually acclimate the dog to a social atmosphere.

Aggressive behavior in dogs is a big problem that many owners have, but it can be controlled, even as your dog gets older. If your aggression ever develops into violence, consider employing an expert to intervene before someone gets hurt and your dog is held accountable.