Reactive and Aggressive Dogs

Behaviour Consulting

What does a reactive dog look like? 

• Lunging

• Barking and/or growling

• Snarling and/or snapping

• Pulling on the leash towards or away from something

• Over excited

• Fearful or Anxious

• Will not listen to commands

• Typically will not follow through on their threat to bite

• Often mislabled as aggressive behaviour

What is aggression?

• Intent to do harm to a person or animal

• May have already landed bites

• Can include any of the characteristics of a reactive dog

• Posturing and guarding behaviours

• Predatory behaviours

• Many types of aggression have been defined

Most of the dogs that fall into the category of reactive and aggressive dogs are coming from a place of fear, anxiety and confusion or are suffering from medical causes of the behaviour. Proper treatment of these issues requires a holistic approach incorporating nutrition, medicine, management, applied behaviour modification techniques, and training. With this kind of comprehensive program you can take your dog from stressed, to calm, confident, and compliant.

Join the Reactive and Aggressive Dog Support Group on Facebook to share your story with other people experiencing similar things.