Dog Language: Aggression


Dogs do not become aggressive overnight. There are always signs, though sometimes they can be subtle. In addition, understanding a dog's puppyhood plays a key into the temperament of their adult life. If your puppy has not been properly socialized or has a had a rough childhood, these could be factors that put your dog into a higher risk of being aggressive.

Dogs act aggressive when they are in an uncomfortable situation with no route of escape. A dog's mouth is the equivalent to a human hand. We human's use our hands to express language: We hug, we tickle, we talk with hand gestures and we even punch. Dog's do the same. If a dog is in an uncomfortable situation and their fear or frustration becomes overwhelming, they will bite if they cannot find or have not been taught an alternative way to soothe themselves.

As a dog's human companion, it's our responsibility to recognize our four-legged friend's language when they are telling us they are uncomfortable with a situation. Here are some cues:

  • A pronounced and unyielding demand for affection: Does your dog constantly sit on your lap, hide behind your legs or even lean on you? These are all signs that your dog is uncomfortable. 
  • A prolonged stare at another individual or animal: Dogs do this in an attempt to try to gain control.
  • Raised Hackles
  • Growling
  • Bared teeth
  • Arched body
  • A stiff walk
  • Tail lifted over the back or under the legs: When a dog is relaxed, it's tail will be in a neutral position, even when wagging. When a dog is overly excited or scared, the tail will be lifted over the back or under the legs. Rapid tail wagging can also accompany this position. So, it's important to note a tail position when assessing a dog's mood. It should also be noted that some dog breeds naturally have a tail curl. This should not be confused with an anxious pup. 😉
  • Ears pricked forward or back: This is kind of like the tail position. In a relaxed environment, a dog's ears will be neutral.
  • A slow sweeping tail: This means your dog is unsure of the situation and is assessing the environment. 
  • Guarding: Does your dog resource guard? (Click on these links for more information on food aggression and toy aggression)
  • Excessive barking which does not stop when you ask. (Unless you happen to have a Basset Hound. Hahaha. 😂)
  • Snaps and misses
  • Urinating Intentionally: This is a big one, but can also be misleading. If your dog is urinating in the house and is house trained, you must first take them to the vet to rule out a medical issue. Once ruled out, it is most likely a sign that your dog is showing signs of aggression and does not like it's environment. 
If your dog is showing any of these signs, it's time to take action because it will not get better on it's own. You need to assess the environment to find out what is causing the anxiousness. Then you need to find training tools to teach your dog a healthy way to cope. It is never a good idea to make your dog confront a fear. Remember: when a dog is trapped and has no route of escape, the fight instinct will kick in. All in all, when aggression starts to rear it's ugly head with biting and lunging, it's time to call in a professional.  You won't be able to handle it on your own.

Some other helpful links for dog aggression:

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