Is One Dog Breed Really More Aggressive Than Another?

It is tempting to over-simplify dogs and label some “aggressive” and not others. However, if trained/treated badly, even a breed with rare aggressive tendencies can act far more worse than a more “aggressive” breed. That is why we at Sit Means Sit Dog Training do what we do. Dog training is key!

Let’s take a closer look at breed and aggression.

Breed

It is true: some dog breeds have inherited tendencies that, if not handled correctly, will make them act more aggressively than others. Certain breeds were conditioned to be guards and protectors; others were raised to fight and hunt and be tenacious. Their DNA still reflects their heritage, even though nowadays, they are not likely to be fulfilling those previous aggressive requirements. However, a dog’s personality, upraising, and experience far outweigh its hereditary tendencies. Therefore, labeling a breed flat-out as “aggressive” is missing the point. This is the issue we deal with every day at Sit Means Sit … dogs are more than their breeds!

Aggression  

Aggression is a coping mechanism. A dog being aggressive is trying to manage a situation that it does not like. Whether or not it falls back onto aggression is something that can be managed if done correctly. In order to do this, it is important to understand that aggression is a response. Dogs are not aggressive for aggression’s sake. Wherever there is aggression, there is something behind it.  The dog trainers at Sit Means Sit are very knowledgeable about the causes of aggression, and we know how to relieve them. The stress that aggression puts on you and your dog is not something you have to live with.

If you and your dog are struggling with aggressive behavior, it’s time to visit Sit means Sit Dog Training in Madison, Wisconsin. We are here to help!

Looking for info on dog training services in Madison? Learn more about our services here.