Aggressive behaviour in dogs - a look behind the facade

What does aggressive behaviour mean?

When we talk about aggressive behaviour in dogs, many people immediately think of dangerous situations, loud barking or even biting. But aggressive behaviour is much more than that. It is a natural part of dog communication and fulfils an important function. As dog behaviour therapists and dog scientists, we - Lui & Paulina - would like to use this article to clear up misunderstandings and show what is really behind this often misunderstood behaviour.

Aggression is not a sign of malice. Rather, it is an expression of inner states such as fear, insecurity, frustration or pain. In most cases, a dog that growls, snaps or even bites is not trying to take control or be "dominant", but feels threatened, overwhelmed or helpless. It is communicating: "Please keep your distance", "I'm scared" or "I can't help it".

Causes of aggressive behaviour

There are many causes of aggressive behaviour. Pain is a common trigger - a dog with chronic joint pain, toothache or an unrecognised injury will understandably react with irritation if you touch it. Fear also plays a key role. Many dogs have been misunderstood or even punished in the past when they wanted to show their boundaries. They then learn that threatening signals such as growling are useless - and go straight on the next time.

Frustration is another important point. If a dog constantly has to experience things that overtax it - too little exercise, no mental exercise, constant overstimulation - this inner tension can eventually be released in the form of aggression. A dog may also have learned that certain behaviour brings success. For example, if it manages to make another dog disappear by growling, it stores this behaviour as effective.

Our approach at Vitomalia

At Vitomalia, we don't believe in quick fixes or in "training away" behaviour. Instead, we look at each dog holistically. If a dog shows aggressive behaviour, we first check the health situation: pain, hormonal problems or neurological causes must be ruled out. At the same time, we analyse the dog's everyday life. How much rest does he get? How much control does he have over situations? Is he understood or often misunderstood?

Understanding body language

An important part of our work is to give dog owners the tools they need to learn to read and understand their dogs better. Body language is a central topic here. A dog usually signals its discomfort at an early stage - by averting its eyes, licking its muzzle, crouching down or becoming tense. If you recognise these signals, you can de-escalate situations before serious behaviour occurs.

Security through management

Management also plays a major role. This does not mean restricting the dog, but creating safety - for him and for others. Well-organised muzzle training can be worth its weight in gold here. Clear routines, a predictable daily routine and the conscious avoidance of stressors also help to give the dog more security.

Training through positive reinforcement

Of course, training is also a must. Positive reinforcement is our approach here. We create new associations, help the dog to develop alternatives and consistently reward calm, desirable behaviour. We don't work against the dog - we work with it.

Our conclusion

Aggressive behaviour is not a sign of a "broken" dog. It is a cry for help, a strategy, a reaction to what is happening inside and around him. If we as humans learn to listen carefully, look and act with heart and mind, then real progress can be made from frightening situations - and seemingly difficult dogs can become wonderful companions.

This article is intended to encourage you. The courage to look. Courage to ask questions. And courage to go new ways - together with the dog.