Dog Aggression Toward People

Medical

• A medical evaluation is important for an aggressive dog, particularly if the behavior is new or occurs after seizure-type activity or the dog is on medications such as steroids. Aggression causes include thyroid, brain tumor, pain and other conditions. Medically related aggression requires treatment; however, behavior training may be required for learned aggression. Spaying or neutering may help decrease some aggressive behaviors.

Behaviors

• Aggressive may begin with growling, barking and raised hackles. A dog that is fearful may exhibit those behaviors or may cower, lower or tuck its tail, or even urinate. When these behaviors do not work, the dog may snap at a person, bite or attack.

Types

• There are different forms of dog aggression aimed at humans. Fear aggression is a response to fear of being hurt, even if there is no real danger. Territorial, protective and possessive aggression result in a dog guarding what it sees as its property, such as its home, yard, toy, car, food, puppies or a person, according to Denver Dumb Friends League (DDFL). Social aggression, often called dominance aggression, relates to a dog's perception of its place in the pack, which may include humans and animals. A dog that perceives itself as the leader, or alpha, may show aggression toward anyone who challenges its position. Frustration aggression occurs when a dog is excited or prevented from doing something, like attacking another dog.

Situation and Target

• Some dogs are aggressive toward all people, while others may target strangers, children, visitors, males or females. A dog may only show aggression toward people wearing a hat, carrying packages, using a cane, sitting in a wheelchair or other specific situations. Observing when the dog becomes aggressive and toward what target is important in determining the type of aggression and appropriate response.

Treatment

• Few owners can handle dog aggression without professional assistance. Consulting with a veterinarian for referrals to in-home dog trainers, particularly veterinarian behaviorists, is important, according to Vetinfo. Owners should avoid trainers who advocate physical punishment as it may escalate the aggression. Behavioral training teaches the dog its social position; helps desensitize the dog to triggers, such as people carrying packages; decreases fearfulness; and teaches the dog appropriate responses. The trainer may suggest having the dog wear a muzzle, take medications or be isolated until behaviors improve, according to DDFL.

Risks

• According to DDFL, a dog that has a long history of aggression, does serious damage or gives no warning before an attack is dangerous and harder to train. A dog that is aggressive toward family members, particularly children, or that cannot be isolated during training so it is not a danger to others may be an unacceptable risk. Euthanizing a dog is sometimes necessary.