Aggression in dogs - motivation and causes
Introduction
At the heart of every dog owner lies the desire to develop a harmonious relationship and deeper understanding with their four-legged friend. But what happens when their loving companion suddenly displays aggressive behaviour? Aggression in dogs can have many causes and manifestations, and often the reasons behind it are misunderstood or unknown. The nature of these behavioural patterns is rooted in the dog's biology as well as its environment and upbringing. In a world where quick conclusions and stereotypical assumptions prevail, this blog invites you to explore the complex networks of cause and effect that underlie aggressive behaviour in dogs. We dive into a multidimensional view, ranging from genetic factors to physical and mental health to different motivations for aggression in dogs.
Table of contents
Definition of aggression in dogs
The word "aggression" is often used when we talk about challenging or difficult behaviour in dogs, but what exactly is "aggression"? This is where it gets tricky, because there isn't really a single definition that covers all facets.
Aggression often serves the purpose of averting a perceived threat or defending resources.
Dr Dorit Urd Feddersen-Petersen, an expert in the field of dog psychology, explains it like this: "Aggression comes from the Latin word "aggredior", which means "to approach" or "to move towards something." In animals, especially canids (i.e. dogs and their relatives), it is often about securing space and presenting or defending their own status in a group. Put simply : "Here I come, make way!", the dog might say." Aggression is therefore also a way in which dogs communicate with each other and with us - and this communication is often more complex than it appears at first glance (Feddersen-Petersen, D. (2014). Dog psychology: social behaviour and nature - emotions and individuality. Kosmos).
The definition of aggression thus extends far beyond the simple concept of a physical attack and broadens our perspective on the role that this behaviour plays in the social dynamics and survival of animal species, especially canids such as dogs. Aggression is not only to be understood as a potentially harmful behaviour, but as a complex and essential means of communication within social structures. Aggression in dogs is therefore normal behaviour and is an indispensable part of communication (Heberer, U., Brede, N. & Mrozinski, N. (2017). Aggressive behaviour in dogs. Kosmos).
Intraspecific aggression
"Intra-" means "within" or "self", so "intraspecific aggression" refers to aggressive behaviour within a species. In dogs, this would be aggressive behaviour from one dog towards another dog. This can manifest itself in various forms, such as conflicts over resources (such as food, toys or sleeping places), in response to perceived threats, or in contexts of social hierarchy and dominance behaviour. Intraspecific aggression can occur due to competition, mating disputes, territoriality, or social hierarchy dynamics.
Example: Two dogs fighting over a toy and displaying aggressive behaviour such as growling, baring their teeth or biting.
Interspecific aggression
"Inter-" means "between", so "interspecific aggression" refers to aggressive behaviour between individuals of different species. In a dog, for example, this can include aggression towards humans, cats, birds or other animals. This type of aggression can be triggered by prey drive, fear, protection of territory or resources, or a number of other factors. So interspecific aggression is what we often see when dogs react to other species in a way that can be interpreted as aggressive.
Example: A dog chasing or barking at a cat would be an example of interspecific aggression.
Aggressive behaviour as communication: understanding instead of condemning
Aggressionsverhalten bei Hunden zu verstehen, bedeutet, einen Blick in ihre Art der Kommunikation zu werfen. Hunde verfügen nicht über die komplexe Sprache der Menschen und kommunizieren stattdessen auf andere Weisen, um ihre Bedürfnisse, Ängste, Freuden und Unwohlsein auszudrücken. Hierbei spielt Aggressionsverhalten eine bedeutende Rolle, die häufig missverstanden wird. Aggression ist nicht gleich Gefährlichkeit. Es ist von grundlegender Bedeutung zu betonen, dass Aggressionsverhalten nicht zwangsläufig gleichbedeutend mit Gefährlichkeit ist. Wenn ein Hund knurrt oder sogar die Zähne zeigt, drückt er damit nicht immer eine direkte Bedrohung aus, sondern signalisiert, dass er mehr Distanz fordert. Die Eskalationsstufen von Aggressionsverhalten müssen uns Hundehaltern bekannt sein. Bestrafe ich meinen Hund für Knurren oder Zähnezeigen, kann das langfristig dazu führen, dass die Warnsignale in Zukunft wegfallen und mein Hund direkt zuschnappt. Es ist daher essenziell, die verschiedenen Formen un
Different motivations for aggressive behaviour
Wouldn't it be great if there was a simple list that told us exactly why a dog is aggressive and what we can do about it? Such a checklist would be super practical, but unfortunately it's not feasible. This is because aggressive behaviour in dogs is complicated and influenced by many different things. So it's not easy to pinpoint an exact reason for the behaviour and find a clear solution. Behaviour in dogs is fundamentally multifactorial. This means that behaviour can occur not just for one reason, but because of many different motivations. If a dog shows aggressive behaviour, there is rarely just one motivation behind it. There are often several reasons that spur the dog on to aggressive behaviour and it can switch between the motivations within a sequence. So it's simply impossible for us humans to filter out just one motivation. Nevertheless, we'd like to give you some ideas.
Mixed motivation
In most cases, aggressive behaviour arises from mixed motivation, where different forms of aggression play a role at the same time. this means that the dog does not react aggressively for a single reason, but its reaction is a mixture of different internal and external drives. for example, a dog could be territorial and also react aggressively out of fear. the presence of multiple motivating factors makes it difficult to identify the exact trigger for the aggressive behaviour and intervene accordingly. mixed motivation can also lead to a dog sending inconsistent or difficult-to-interpret signals, making it challenging for owners to correctly read their pet's condition.
Angstaggression
Fear aggression in dogs refers to aggressive behaviour that arises out of fear or uncertainty. A dog that reacts aggressively out of fear is often trying to ward off or avoid a threat, whether real or imagined. This behaviour is a form of self-protection to guard against something that is interpreted as dangerous or unsettling. Fear is an emotion that occurs in response to a perceived threat or danger. It serves an important function in terms of survival and protection by causing living things to respond to potentially dangerous situations in a way that minimises risk. However, in dogs (and animals in general), fear can be triggered not only by actual threatening situations, but also by circumstances that they interpret as such - even if there is no real danger.
The concepts of "Flight, Freeze, Fiddle, Fight" are often central to understanding fear responses in animals, including dogs. These four "F's" represent different ways animals can react to fear or a threat:
1st flight (flight)
The flight response is a common response to fear or danger. when a dog perceives a situation or object as a threat, its first reaction may be to try to move away from that threat. it might run away, hide or seek a safe place. this type of behaviour is designed to get the individual out of potential danger. unfortunately, in an everyday walking situation, this is not always possible for the dog because the Leash may prevent it from hiding.
2. freeze (solidification)
In a fearful situation, a "freeze" reaction often occurs. This is a survival mechanism that occurs in dangerous situations to avoid being noticed by predators. If the dog cannot escape from a frightening situation, it usually freezes. This can serve as a kind of defence mechanism, especially if escape is not possible. The dog remains completely motionless and waits, often in the hope that the threat will disappear on its own or that it will not be noticed.
3. fiddle (fiddle/distraction)
"Fiddling" or also known as "fidgeting" refers to a type of distraction behaviour or self-soothing. An insecure dog may begin to exhibit behaviours that could be interpreted as appeasement signals. The goal is often to reduce their own tension while sending non-verbal signals to the perceived threat that say, "I'm not a danger to you." Some dogs begin to exhibit playful, rather silly behaviours in this context, which dog owners then interpret as a friendly play request. This misinterpretation can become really dangerous.
4. fight (fight)
If escape, freezing or distraction are not possible or not successful, the dog may turn to fighting as a last resort. This means that he will show aggressive behaviour to drive away the threat, true to the motto "attack is the best defence". "Fight" is often a last line of defence when the dog feels that he has no other way to defend himself. Dogs that receive too little protection from their human, for example, in which the human misunderstands "fiddel", or the dog is left alone in his fear, will show aggression more often in the future. The original fear aggression then becomes learned aggression because the dog knows from experience that he has been successful with the strategy of aggression so far.
It is important to understand these reactions as normal behaviours that, from the dog's perspective, serve to protect itself from potential threats. A deeper understanding of these reactions and their triggers can help to create environments and situations that minimise stress for the dog and help it to feel safer and more relaxed. Proactively managing anxiety and stress in dogs, possibly with the support of a professional dog trainer or animal behaviour specialist, can be crucial to the animal's well-being.
How to recognise fear aggression:
✔️ Dog is incapacitated
✔️ refuses treats
Learned aggression
Learned aggression can be taught to the dog unconsciously or consciously. In the case of unconsciously learned aggression, the dog has learnt from experience that his dog cannot protect him sufficiently, either by misinterpreting the fear and the fiddling shown and interpreting it as a request to play, or by unintentional learning processes of aggressive reactions to certain places or environmental stimuli.
Consciously learned aggression, for example, is part of protection dog training, where dogs are conditioned to certain stimuli or procedures in order to show aggressive behaviour in specific situations. It is therefore important that dog sports of this kind are trained properly and tailored to the dog so that uncontrollable behaviour does not develop.
Resource-related aggression
Resource-related aggression, often referred to as resource defence, is a form of aggressive behaviour that occurs when a dog tries to defend or secure a valuable resource.
- Food and treats: This is one of the most common resources that dogs will defend. A dog may growl or snap if someone approaches their food bowl while they are eating.
- Toys: Some dogs show aggressive behaviour when they have a beloved toy and someone tries to take it away.
- Lying places: A dog may regard a favourite blanket, a bed or a certain place on the couch as its resource and defend it.
- People: A dog may see a particular person (often the primary owner) as its resource and react aggressively if it believes that person is being threatened by others.
- Territory: Although this can also fall into the category of territorial aggression, places such as the backyard or the house can be seen as resources to be defended.
Ressourcenbedingte Aggression bei Hunden zeigt sich durch eine bemerkenswerte Fixierung und Verteidigung von Objekten wie Futter, Spielzeug oder Schlafplätzen, bei denen der Hund in der Regel eine unmittelbare Präsenz und direkte Verteidigung des begehrten Objekts aufweist. Beim Annähern eines anderen Individuums, sei es Mensch oder Tier, versteift sich der Hund, fixiert das Objekt mit seinem Blick oder starrt knapp daran vorbei und beginnt, überdeutlich zu drohen, indem er knurrt, die Zähne fletscht und die Augen aufreißt. Abhängig von der Motivation des Hundes kann sein aggressives Verhalten sowohl offensiv als auch defensiv wirken. Es ist auch wichtig zu betonen, dass die Intensität, mit der ein Hund eine Ressource verteidigt, von verschiedenen Aspekten beeinflusst wird. Dazu gehören der Wert der Ressource selbst, das Gegenüber, gegen das die Ressource verteidigt wird, und der Status des verteidigenden Hundes - einschließlich Charakter, Rasseeigenschaften, Geschlecht, Gesundheitszustand und Alte
Sexually motivated aggression
Sexuell motivierte Aggression bei Hunden ist eng mit Hormonen und deren Effekten auf das Verhalten verknüpft, die darauf ausgerichtet sind, die eigenen Fortpflanzungschancen zu optimieren. Bei Rüden zeigt sich sexuell motivierte Aggression hauptsächlich durch Imponierverhalten oder Kommentkämpfe, die beide zum Ziel haben, eine Einigung unter Rüden ohne ernsthafte körperliche Auseinandersetzung zu finden. Eher selten wird es bei Rüden ernsthaft. Der wesentlichen Unterschied ist die Aufgabe von Hündinnen und Rüden. Hündinnen sind für die Welpenaufzucht verantwortlich, deshalb sind sie auch im sozialen Verhalten mit Menschen eher nach innen bezogen. Bei Unstimmigkeiten mit anderen Hündinnen kann die Situation jedoch, im Gegensatz zu Rüden, wesentlich gefährlicher ausfallen und sogar bis aufs Blut gehen. Das Verhalten von Hündinnen mit anderen Hunden kann einerseits stark von der Erziehung oder dem Charakter abhängen, aber auch von der jeweiligen Zyklus-Phase , in der sie
Socially motivated aggression
Socially motivated aggression in dogs arises and manifests itself in social contexts, particularly in relation to their human social partners. Sometimes socially motivated aggression can also arise when the dog wants to protect other dogs in its social group. A dog's aggressive behaviour is often inadvertently encouraged by the owner's reactions and behaviour - whether through fear, insecurity or even positive reinforcement. The problem of socially motivated aggression is further compounded by misinterpretations by the dog's owner and the environment. Often aggressive behaviour is misinterpreted as a protective instinct or a sign of fear, and the owner's reactions - such as reassurance, petting or laughter - can further reinforce this unwanted behaviour, leading the dog to view its aggressive actions as a shared experience with its human.
How to recognise socially motivated aggression:
✔︎ Is sometimes misinterpreted as a "protective instinct".
✔︎ Can occur towards both humans and other dogs.
✔︎ Can occur in different contexts (e.g. in the family, when going for a walk).
✔︎ A possible experiment for identification: The dog is tied up and shows aggressive behaviour towards a stimulus. When the owner moves away, it should be checked whether the dog shifts its attention from the stimulus to the owner. If the aggressive reaction decreases as soon as the owner moves away, this is socially motivated aggressive behaviour.
✔︎ When interacting with other dogs: Aggressive behaviour can suddenly occur when a new dog is introduced and could be misinterpreted as territorial aggression.
Status-motivated aggression
Status-related aggression in dogs refers to the hierarchy and dynamics within their social groups or associations. Hierarchies in such associations, which are based on health, age-related experience and mental strength, make biological sense and serve as orientation for all members of the group. Since the characteristics that determine an animal's rank are changeable and not static, low-ranking animals in particular repeatedly try to improve their status through aggressive behaviour, which may give them additional freedom and improved living conditions. Hierarchical structures are indispensable in social associations, as clear and quick decisions, for example in threatening situations, can be essential for survival. In terms of resource management, mentally strong dogs that have a higher rank in their association tend to be more generous and more likely to release resources.
How to recognise status-motivated aggression:
✔︎ Offensive behaviour: expressions such as raised head, direct eye contact, and raised tail.
✔︎ Resource and status conflicts: Disputes over resources such as food or space are often linked to status issues.
✔︎ Subtle control: Inconspicuous methods of influencing the owner's freedom of movement (e.g. blocking the path).
✔︎ Spatial surveillance: Positioning at strategic locations to control space and movements.
Territorial Aggression
Territoriales Verhalten ist eine natürliche Verhaltensweise bei Hunden und tritt insbesondere im Kontext ihres Wohnraums auf. Für Tiere, die wie der Hund sesshaft sind, ist der Wohnraum eine überlebenswichtige Ressource. In ihrem Territorium befinden sich wichtige Ressourcen, wie Futter oder ihre Ruheplätze. Sie ziehen ihre Jungen in ihrem Territorium auf und verpaaren sich dort. Unseere Hund leben heutzutage eng mit uns zusammen und ihre Anpassungsfähigkeit hat sich auf ihre Interpretation von „Territorium“ ausgewirkt. Ein Hund nimmt nicht nur sein Zuhause als Territorium wahr, sondern kann territoriale Aggression auf das Auto oder seinen Spazierweg. Streng genommen ist also die territoriale Aggression gekoppelt an die ressourcenbedingte Aggression, weil (Wohn-)Raum für Hunde eine Ressource bedeutet. Hunde haben, in Bezug auf die Überwachung von Orten, stets als wertvolle Partner für Menschen gedient. Viele Hunderassen wurden ursprünglich – und auch heute noch – dazu genutzt, um als Hofhunde
How to recognise territorially motivated aggression:
✔︎ Aggressive barking along the territory (e.g. garden fence)
✔︎ Rapid approach to the border, often up to a certain point
✔︎ Excitement at the territorial borders
✔︎ Blocking the path by standing still in a threatening manner
✔︎ Following intruders with possible attack attempts (biting attempts)
✔︎ Execution of mock attacks or real attacks
✔︎ Intruders are confronted and barked at until they stop moving
Redirected aggression
Umgelenkte Aggression tritt auf, wenn ein Hund aggressives Verhalten gegenüber einem Menschen oder Tier zeigt, obwohl seine Aggression eigentlich jemandem oder etwas anderem galt. Diese Art von Aggression kann auftreten, wenn ein Hund durch eine bestimmte Situation oder ein bestimmtes Individuum erregt oder frustriert ist, aber nicht in der Lage ist, seine Aggression direkt gegen das auslösende Ziel zu richten. Ein ganz banales Beispiel ist hierbei das Beißen in die Leash, sobald der Hund nicht an sein eigentliches Ziel kommt. Häufig richtet sich die Aggression dann auch gegen den Hundehalter, wenn etwa der andere Hund nicht direkt angegangen werden kann. Hierbei wird die Aggression stattdessen auf ein näheres, leichter erreichbares Ziel umgelenkt. Es bleibt ein Diskussionspunkt, ob umgelenkte Aggression absichtlich oder reflexartig erfolgt. Was sicher ist, ist dass solche aggressiven Verhaltensweisen oft reduziert oder modifiziert werden können, wenn das Hundetraining gezielt auf die Verbesserung der I
Causes of aggression
Aggression in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors. Both disposition and environment play a decisive role here. The factors that can bring about these behaviours are diverse and often complexly intertwined. The disposition-environment debate inevitably arises here, which deals with the influence of genetics (disposition) and environment (upbringing, socialisation) on behaviours. A dog may have a genetic predisposition for certain behaviours, such as aggression, but the environment in which it grows up and lives plays a decisive role in whether and how these dispositions come to fruition. The genetic component lays down possible behaviours, while the environmental conditions have a decisive influence on which of these behaviours are actually developed.
Genetics
Genetic factors are central in shaping a dog's temperament and behavioural tendencies. It is an undeniable fact that the DNA a dog inherits from its parents forms the basis for many of its subsequent behavioural patterns, including susceptibility to aggression. This does not mean that a dog's behaviour is entirely determined by its genes, but it does establish certain basic traits and potentials that may emerge in certain circumstances. It is essential to emphasise that, despite breed-specific tendencies, a significant proportion of behavioural expressions vary from dog to dog, and environment, upbringing, socialisation and individual experiences have a significant influence on how genetic predispositions ultimately manifest themselves. A dog of a breed with a reputation for gentleness may well display aggressive behaviour, and conversely a dog of a breed often regarded as 'difficult' may display aggressive behaviour.
- German Shepherd Dogs: They were originally bred to work with sheep and should be able to protect the flock, which in some cases can lead to them having a certain protective and watchful tendency, which can also manifest itself as aggression towards strangers.
- Terrier breeds (e.g. Jack Russell Terrier): Many terriers have been bred to hunt small game and often have high energy and stamina. They can also have a high stimulus threshold and a tendency towards impulsive and reactive behaviour, which can result in a higher propensity for aggression, especially in situations that are perceived as threatening or challenging.
- Bull-type terriers (e.g. American Staffordshire Terriers): These breeds are often associated with a certain stubbornness and also with aggressive behaviour, but this should be viewed with caution and always individually. Historically, bull-type terriers were bred for various "sports" and tasks that could encourage aggressive behaviour. Among other things, they were used in the past for bull and bear fighting, but also as rat catchers. These activities promoted characteristics such as bravery, endurance and a certain willingness to be aggressive towards other animals.
- Rottweiler: A Rottweiler may have a natural tendency to protect its territory or family, due to its history as a working dog in various guarding and protection roles, so they may exhibit aggressive tendencies in certain contexts, especially if they perceive a threat to their territory or people.
Education and socialisation
When we talk about training and socialisation in dogs, we are referring to the process by which dogs learn how to behave appropriately in different situations and towards different creatures, including their interactions with people, other animals and their environment in general.
Early socialisation
Socialisation begins in puppyhood and continues throughout the dog's life, but the primary socialisation phase takes place between the third and twelfth week of life. During this period, it is essential that puppies are exposed to a variety of people, animals, environments and experiences. This helps to prevent or at least minimise fear of unfamiliar objects, creatures or situations later in life.
Socialisation and behaviour
A lack of socialisation can lead to insecure or fearful behaviour, which in turn can lead to aggression if the dog feels threatened or backed into a corner. Similarly, a bad experience with a particular stimulus (such as another dog, person or situation) during the critical socialisation period can lead to fear and possibly aggressive behaviour later in life.
The role of the owner
This is where the role of the dog owner comes into play. Sticking to a structured training and socialisation plan and observing and responding appropriately to the dog's behaviour are essential. At the same time, building a strong bond between owner and dog through trust and respect is essential to create a safe and stable environment in which the dog can learn.
Epigenetics
Die Epigenetik stellt eine Schnittstelle zwischen den genetischen Faktoren und der Umwelt dar. Die Epigenetik befasst sich mit Veränderungen in der Genexpression, also damit, wie Gene „abgelesen“ oder „stumm geschaltet“ werden, ohne dass die DNA-Sequenz selbst verändert wird. Diese Veränderungen können durch Umweltfaktoren, wie Stress, Ernährung oder Ausgesetztsein gegenüber Toxinen, ausgelöst werden und auch vererbt werden, ohne dass die DNA-Sequenz selbst zwischen den Generationen verändert wurde. In Bezug auf die Aggression bei Hunden können epigenetische Faktoren dazu beitragen, wie und wann aggressive Verhaltensweisen auftreten. Zum Beispiel könnte ein Trauma oder starker Stress der Mutterhündin epigenetische Markierungen setzen, die bestimmte Gene, die mit Stressreaktionen oder Angstverhalten verbunden sind, aktivieren oder deaktivieren. Dies könnte wiederum die Schwelle des Hundes für das Zeigen von aggressivem Verhalten in bestimmten Situationen beeinflussen. Es ist also vorstellb
This is where epigenetics plays a role as a mediator between an individual's genetic make-up and their environment by allowing life-history and environmental influences to affect the function of their genes.
Physical health problems
One aspect that can strongly influence a dog's aggressive behaviour is physical health problems. Pain, discomfort and a general inability to act normally can permanently change a dog's character and temperament.
Some breeds are genetically predisposed to certain health conditions that can lead to pain or discomfort. For example, some large breeds are prone to hip dysplasia, while smaller breeds are more likely to suffer from patellar luxations. Pain from these conditions can directly affect a dog's behaviour and make them irritable or aggressive, especially when their painful areas are touched.
Mental health and stress
Stress, whether acute or chronic, can have a significant impact on a dog's behaviour. A dog that is constantly under stress, whether from an unstable home environment, regular confrontation with trigger factors or other stressful circumstances, may show increased levels of aggression. You can find out more about stress here.
In addition to stress, anxiety can also encourage aggressive behaviour, and aggression motivated by anxiety has already been explained above.
General Aggression Model
The General Aggression Model was developed by Craig Anderson and Brad J. Bushman as a framework for explaining aggressive behaviour in general, often in the context of human aggression. The model aims to explain various factors that contribute to the emergence of aggressive behaviour and how these factors interact in different contexts.
The General Aggression Model can be divided into three main components:
Input phases (input): These relate to personal and situational factors. environmental influences.
Routes: This part refers to the internal mental processes, including thoughts, feelings and physical reactions.
Output: This refers to the final behaviour, which can be either aggressive or non-aggressive.
If we were to apply the model to aggressive behaviour in dogs:
Input phases: Personal factors could be breed, age, health status, previous experience or training methods. Situational factors could be immediate stimuli such as loud noises, other animals or people.
Routes: How the dog processes these stimuli based on its internal states, its experiences and its upbringing. What does the situation trigger in the dog and what emotions or affects does it favour?
Output: The actual behaviour of the dog, which can be either aggressive, passive or anything in between.
Although the General Aggression Model was not developed specifically for dogs, it can certainly be adapted and used as a framework to understand how different factors might influence aggressive behaviour in dogs.
Vitomalias Fazit
Aggressive behaviour in dogs often raises questions and concerns among owners and the public, but the complex behavioural pattern of aggression hides various causes and motivations that are influenced both at the genetic level and by environmental factors. Aggressive behaviour can be driven by a variety of motivations, ranging from fear to territorial defensiveness to resource defence or even hierarchical responses. The key to understanding this often lies in close observation of the context.
Some breeds may be more prone to certain forms of aggression than others due to their breeding history, and individual differences must also be considered. Although genetic factors influence a dog's potential for certain behaviours, including aggression, they are not the sole determining element. The expression of this genetic potential is always modulated by a variety of influences, including environmental factors, individual experiences and epigenetic changes. Therefore, an integrative approach that considers both genetic and environmental factors is essential to truly understand and positively influence a dog's behaviour. A lack of proper socialisation and training can promote aggressive behaviour, even if the dog does not genetically exhibit an increased propensity for it. In addition, both physical and mental health problems can cause aggressive behaviour.
What is meant by aggressive behaviour in dogs?
Aggressive behaviour in dogs refers to any form of behaviour aimed at hurting or threatening another person, animal or object, which may be expressed through growling, biting, barking or other gestures.
What are the main causes of aggression in dogs?
The main causes can include genetic factors, training and socialisation problems, physical health problems and mental health/stress, and external factors such as the environment in which the dog lives.
Are there certain breeds that are prone to aggressive behaviour?
While some studies point to a higher incidence of certain behaviours in some breeds, it is crucial to emphasise that it is not the breed but a variety of factors, including upbringing and environment, that determine a dog's behaviour. Due to original breeding goals in hunting dogs, guard dogs or livestock guarding dogs, a tendency towards aggressive behaviour can be observed in different situations.
How do genetic factors influence a dog's aggressive behaviour?
Genetic factors can influence the likelihood of certain behaviours by shaping the dog's physical and psychological foundation. These genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors to shape the final behaviour.
How can physical and mental health problems affect aggression in dogs?
A dog in pain or with other physical ailments may show aggressive behaviour to protect itself. Psychological stress, such as chronic stress or anxiety disorders, can also lead to increased irritability and aggression.
What do correlation and causality mean in the context of aggressive behaviour in dogs?
Correlation means that two things are related and the strength of the relationship can vary. For example, certain types of dogs may be more likely to show aggressive behaviour, but not necessarily causally related. Aggression and breed are related, but are not origins in themselves. Causality means that a cause (e.g. a disease) produces an effect (e.g. aggression). In dogs, it is often a combination of several factors that lead to aggressive behaviour.
Are there preventive measures to prevent aggressive behaviour in dogs?
Yes, this includes good socialisation at a young age, consistent, fair training, regular veterinary checks and a stable, safe environment. A sound understanding of dog communication and the dog's needs are also crucial.