PET BEHAVIOR
Dogs have been man’s best friend since their wolf-y ancestors first discovered food was easier to get by following around human hunters. However well dogs have adjusted todomestication, they have retained some attributes and habits from their feral predecessors, including aggressive behaviors. Even the most docile of dogs can display aggression when confronted with threatening situations, and identifying and knowing how to control these behaviors is integral to maintaining a long and loving relationship with your pup.
Fear aggression occurs when a dog is frightened or intimidated in his or her current surroundings. Unfortunately, owners of dogs with fear aggression often attempt to comfort or reassure the dog, thereby reinforcing the adverse behaviors. Snapping, growling, and attempts to escape ones surroundings are all signs of fear aggression. Body postures such as a lowered head and flattened ears, raised fur, and lip retraction can be signs that your dog is feeling afraid and ready to defend himself (or you!) if provoked.
Most dogs with fear aggression will try to avoid a fearful situation by slowly reversing away from the person, predator, or situation causing them fear. Once they are cornered, however, they will likely attack and attempt to defend themselves.
While there is no specific action you can take to completely solve fear aggression, you can become adept at preventing or managing it:
Dogs that have food-related aggression tend to react strongly when people or other dogs approach her during feeding time. Protecting one’s food source is a deeply-ingrained evolutionary imperative that can result in plenty of trouble if not managed properly.
Territorial aggression occurs when a dog attempts to protect its surroundings (whether appropriate or not) from perceived intruders. This does not necessarily mean only your home; dogs can be territorial about the area they’ve in which they’ve been playing at the park, surrounding neighborhoods, cars, and so on. Territorialism is closely related to fear aggression in that the dog perceives a threat to his surroundings, or even to his human, and he becomes ready to defend either. The body language and behaviors of a territorial dog also mirror that of a fearful one: lowered head, flattened ears, snarling or lunging.
Again, there is no “cure” for territorial behaviors, but you can control them.
As summertime approaches, we’re all quite excited about spending more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine with our best friends. Frisbee in the park, walks along a riverbank, and other fun outdoor activities can be just what you and your dog need to shake off any residual winter blues and soak up some vitamin D – and you’re not the only ones who are looking forward to it. You will likely encounter other dogs in your summertime adventures, and you should know what to do if those dogs are less than friendly.
Stay alert and stay safe this summer by recognizing the signs of aggression in your own dog or others. If your dog doesn’t respond to attempts to control aggression, consult your veterinarian or professional trainer for assistance. With the right approach, even the most anxious dog can learn to control his aggression and be a happy, well-adjusted companion for years to come.
Consider Investing in Dog Insurance
Looking for more ways to keep your pup happy and healthy? Consider investing in a dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance.1 Our dog insurance policies can provide the coverage and care your furry family member deserves. Get your free quote today.
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.