Are Certain Dog Breeds Naturally Aggressive?

Are you looking to get a breed that is known to be aggressive? Is your dog showing aggressive behaviors? Read below to learn about aggression in dogs!

Is Behavior Breed Specific?

There are a few behaviors that are connected to breed more than other behaviors are. For example, howling is common among beagles, and retrievers are more comfortable with strangers. Additionally, herding breeds are more likely to follow instructions. However, studies show that only 9% of behavioral variation is explained by breed. So, it is hard to predict a dog’s behavior based on its breed. Just like people, there is a lot of variability between our companions!

Can We Predict The Behavior Of Dogs?

A combination of factors shapes the personality and behavior of your dog. Temperament is often influenced by genetics and breed. However, behavior relies more on age, sex, and the environment in which the canine is raised.

What Causes Aggressive Dogs?

Discovering what is causing your furry friend to show aggression is essential. One cause could be failing to meet their needs. For example, you should ensure your companion gets enough exercise has structure, boundaries, and social time. Some dogs need a job, more interaction with their owners, or more mental stimulation to be happy and content. So, ensure that their needs are met!

Additionally, an abundance of iron and vitamin A can cause irritability. So, if you feed your pal foods high in these minerals, such as dried liver, consider cutting back.

Not being properly socialized can also cause aggression. Dogs need to be introduced to other dogs and people to socialize well. Unsocialized dogs usually fear the unknown. Trust and confidence are crucial to avoiding aggressive canines. Furthermore, if your dog has never met another dog, they may not understand how to act like a dog and don’t have the confidence to do so.

Lastly, pain can cause your pal to be aggressive. If your pal displays unexplained aggression, they may be uncomfortable and in pain. So, have your vet examine your dog, get bloodwork done, and check their teeth. Easing what is causing their pain will help curb their aggressive behavior more than training can.

Refer to the factors above that may contribute to your dog’s aggressive behavior!