Dominant Aggression in Dogs

A dog may become dominant because of lack of leadership and guidance from its owner or it may have dominant traits deeply instilled into its genetic makeup. Either way, dominance in dogs can be a difficult situation to deal with, especially when dominance turns into aggression. For this reason, dominant-aggressive dogs should be handled strictly by a dog behaviorist.

  1. Warning

    • A dominant-aggressive dog is dangerous. It should be kept away from strangers, children, other pets and, if feasible, it should be muzzled. Alpha roles and other physical corrections should be avoided in dominant dogs.

    Dynamic

    • Dominant-aggressive dogs tend to express that humans are inferior. As a consequence, such dogs may attack and bite when it feels its authority has been challenged.

    Age of Onset

    • According to Ed Frawley, on his website Leerburg.com, dominance problems tend to occur mostly once the dog reaches maturity, usually between 15 to 36 months old, with a peak around 18 months. It is unusual for puppies under eight months of age to display dominant aggression.

    Signs

    • A dominant-aggressive dog will growl, snap or bite, often under the following circumstances: when his space is invaded; when somebody touches her possessions (toys, food, bones); when he his disciplined; and if she is disturbed while laying down or sleeping.

    Solution

    • A dog behaviorist should be consulted at the first sign of dominant behaviors. She will usually come to the house, assess the situation and offer solutions.

    Treatment

    • The solution for dominant behaviors consists mainly in establishing leadership through the guidance of a dog behaviorist. This can be accomplished through obedience training exercises and preventing dominant dogs from engaging in dominant behaviors such as climbing on furniture, sleeping on beds, getting out of doors first, pulling on leashes, blocking passageways and other dominant behaviors.