Aggression in Neutered Male Dogs

Aggression is not a problem that is unique to un-neutered (or intact) male dogs. Although in some cases, neutering a dog can reduce or eliminate a specific aggression problem, even neutered dogs are capable of displaying aggressive behavior. Dominance aggression is common in intact dogs, but can also be found in neutered males and even females. Aggression comes not only from a desire for dominance, however. It can be caused by possessiveness, fear, pain or defensiveness and can affect any dog, whether intact or not.

  1. Dominance Aggression

    • Intact male dogs will often vie for dominance and the chance to win the female. This can lead to fighting between male dogs or it can inspire a dog to act aggressively toward humans that it views as a threat. This type of aggression is not isolated to intact males, however. Neutered males that do not have proper leadership in the home will "take charge" and can show signs of dominance aggression. This occurs when a dog believes a social rule has been broken, such as when it is touched, hugged or disturbed while sleeping. Dominance aggression can be prevented by establishing house rules for the dog, such as staying off of the furniture, and enforcing them in a positive but consistent way every day.

    Pain-Based Aggression

    • Some neutered male dogs will begin to display aggressive behavior suddenly, even if they were even-tempered before. Pain, injury and illness can cause a dog to behave aggressively. Be cautious if you are handling an injured dog, because it may instinctively bite in order to protect itself. This type of aggression can occur in neutered and intact male dogs, female dogs and even puppies. If your normally sweet-natured dog suddenly starts acting aggressively, take him to the vet to ensure that nothing is physically wrong.

    Fear Aggression and Self-Defense

    • Dogs communicate verbally through growls, barks and snarls. These can act as warning signs, but they have only one true means of self-defense: their teeth. Fearful dogs may cower or attempt to run away before attacking. Neutered dogs are not immune to fear and can show signs of aggression when they feel nervous or threatened. Like humans, dogs experience a fight-or-flight response to dangerous situations. If a dog is afraid and feels like escape is not an option, it can become aggressive. This type of aggression usually consists of nips or "in-and-out" bites, as the dog is eager to get away from the perceived danger.

    Territorial Aggression

    • Territorial instincts are not unique to intact male dogs. Neutered dogs can also experience an instinctive urge to protect their yards, homes, families or belongings. Territorial or possessive aggression occurs when a dog attempts to protect its ownership of a certain place, person or object. For example, your dog may snap at you when you reach for its bone, or it might bark furiously at a bicyclist that passes by the fence. Males (intact or neutered) and females can both display this type of aggression.

    Protective Aggression

    • If left on their own, dogs would form packs to survive. They are social creatures that attach themselves to their packs, or families. Many adult dogs, both male and female, will become aggressive while trying to protect their families or certain individuals from perceived danger. They often choose to protect "weaklings" such as children or puppies. This type of aggressive behavior may only be displayed in dangerous situations, but it can become a problem if the dog begins to treat every outsider as a threat.