Different Types of Dog Aggression

Some behaviorists break aggression down further, depending on how or to whom the behavior is displayed. The following are some of the many ways aggression is described. As with the types of aggression discussed earlier, they all relate back to fear in one way or another.

Possessive aggression occurs when dogs guard objects such as food, toys, or anything else they value. It's closely related to territorial and protective aggression. This is one of the easier forms of aggression to manage, which you can do by teaching your dog that good things come when he gives up a toy or food bowl without a fight. First you combine taking an item away with giving something back. For instance, a behaviorist might recommend first adding food to your dog's dish, then taking the dish away, adding more food, and giving the dish back. The dog learns that good things happen when people touch his food dish. You can also teach your dog that if he gives up or drops a toy, another toy or a food treat appears.

Maternal aggression is the protective behavior of a mother in defense of her pups. A dog may growl or otherwise act aggressively when strangers, or even favorite family members, approach her new puppies. Maternal aggression usually disappears once pups are weaned. In the meantime, though, it's important to teach Mom that it's okay for people to handle her babies, providing positive reinforcement every time she lets people approach and touch her pups.

Maternal aggression is usually seen during the first three weeks after the mother dog gives birth. If she shows aggression when strangers are around, keep them away during this time. If the aggression continues after three weeks, take your dog to another room when people come to visit or take the puppies to the visitor. Puppies need socialization from people other than family members, so don't give in to maternal aggression. Fear aggression is defensive in nature. A dog who thinks he's in danger will try to either defend himself or run, the "fight or flight" response. Dogs who haven't been well socialized might mistake innocent actions, the fast-moving hand of a toddler or an arm raised to throw a ball, as attacks and act to defend themselves by growling or biting. When they see that their behavior gets the reaction they want, a person backs off, a pattern is set. Fear aggression is often described as a kind of anxiety disorder and is treated as such. Sometimes drug therapy may help.

Pain-related aggression is exactly what it sounds like. Just as we might yell at someone who handles us roughly when we don't feel good, dogs with injuries or health problems may growl or bite when they're touched in a sore spot. Dogs who do this need to learn that touch is rewarding, not painful. Be careful any time you touch a dog in pain, and make sure your dog has plenty of handling from puppyhood on. He should be used to having you groom him, touch his feet, and look in his mouth. Teach him to let other people touch him as well. It makes it easier for veterinarians and groomers to do their jobs.