How Does One Interpret Aggression Signs in Dogs?
- Dr Andrew Matole, BVetMed, MSc
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Occasionally, dogs become fractious during handling, especially when stressed, fearful, or in pain. Proper restraint is therefore essential to prevent injury to both the handler and the animal. The use of appropriate handling techniques, combined with protective clothing such as sturdy shoes, significantly reduces the risk of injury (Overall, 2013). Minimising exposure to sudden environmental changes and gradually acclimatising dogs to new stimuli is equally important, as abrupt changes may trigger stress responses (Horwitz & Mills, 2009). Handlers should always maintain an exit strategy, recognising that some dogs may not tolerate restraint. In such cases, it is recommended to place the dog in a secure, controlled environment until it calms down (American Veterinary Medical Association [AVMA], 2020).
Why is it important to be cautious with dogs?
Dogs, despite domestication, retain strong “fight-or-flight” behavioural responses when faced with perceived threats (McGreevy & Boakes, 2011). While many dogs attempt to escape, others may resort to aggression, including biting.
Large-breed dogs pose a significant physical risk due to their size and strength. However, studies suggest that small-breed dogs may exhibit higher bite frequency, often linked to fear-based or defensive aggression (Duffy et al., 2008). All dogs possess sharp dentition (teeth) capable of easily causing injury to a person with minimal effort, reinforcing the need for caution during handling.
It is important to follow certain safety guidelines when working with dogs to avoid injury to you and your dog. An adult large-breed dog may weigh as much as a person. However, small-breed dogs weighing less than 25 pounds are more likely to bite than larger breeds.
What kind of restraints and secure environments should one use?
Effective restraint is the cornerstone of safe dog handling. At a minimum, a strong collar and leash in excellent condition should be used. Ensuring that the collar is properly fastened is critical, as poorly fitted collars increase the risk of escape (Yin, 2009).
Dogs should always be handled in a secure environment, such as a closed room or fenced yard, to prevent uncontrolled movement and reduce risk exposure.
In some cases, additional restraint such as a muzzle may be necessary.
Separating certain dogs, such as non-neutered males and females or female dogs with puppies, from other dogs on the property and using separate housing or crates is important. These measures will shield male dogs from female dogs in heat and mitigate the potential issues arising from their interaction. Female dogs with puppies are often very protective and may injure a person who tries to interact with them.
In addition, only experienced people should handle non-neutered males or females with puppies. It is also important to approach dogs carefully and slowly, without staring, because some dogs may bite when they feel threatened by someone approaching. You should also wear protective clothing, such as sturdy shoes, and avoid loose-fitting clothing that they can bite.
How do I prevent my dog from being aggressive?
Introduce dogs slowly to new situations or new dogs to avoid agitating them. However, it is not always possible to avoid new situations, so it is important to recognise the signs of an agitated dog, which can include barking, growling, a tail held erect and waving back and forth, pacing, and erect hair around their shoulders. The dog's ears may be erect or flattened against his/her head. An agitated dog may try to bite other dogs nearby, and if you approach, the dog may try to bite you.
Some dogs will show signs of fear, such as avoiding your gaze, backing up as you approach, and hunching their backs in a
submissive position, but then lunging to bite you. This behaviour is known as "fear biting" or "fear aggression". If you notice this behaviour, back slowly away from the dog to avoid escalating the situation. Then, try to determine what stimulus is causing the dog to appear fractious or agitated. Once you identify the stimulus (e.g., a new dog in the area), remove it or wait a few minutes to see if the dog calms down. Most dogs will calm down once they adjust to a change in the environment, if given a few minutes. If the stimulus can't be removed, it may help to distract the dog with dog food or a treat. Sometimes the dog needs to be walked away to another location. If possible, stand to the side, out of the dog's way. If the dog is confined, it may help to leave him/her alone for a few minutes; many dogs will calm down after they adjust.
What are the signs of aggression in dogs?
Interpreting signs of aggression in dogs requires careful observation and an understanding of their body language and behaviour. Aggression in dogs can stem from various causes, including fear, resource guarding, territoriality, frustration, or social dominance. Here are some common signs of aggression in dogs:
1. Growling and Snarling
Dogs often growl and snarl when they feel threatened or agitated. It's a warning sign that they may escalate to more aggressive behaviour if the situation continues.
2. Baring Teeth
When a dog exposes its teeth by curling its lips or pulling back its gums, it's a clear sign of aggression and potential readiness to bite.
3. Lunging and Barking
Dogs may lunge forward while barking aggressively, attempting to intimidate or ward off perceived threats.
4. Raised Fur
When a dog's fur along the back and neck stands up (known as piloerection), it indicates increased arousal, which can be associated with aggression.
5. Stiff Body Posture
A dog displaying aggression will often have a stiff body with tense muscles. They may hold their head and tail high, displaying dominant body language.
6. Prolonged Eye Contact
Staring with a fixed gaze and unblinking eyes can be a sign of aggression or challenge in dogs.
7. Snapping or Biting
Aggressive dogs may snap or bite as a defensive response or to establish dominance. This behaviour is a clear indication that the dog feels threatened and is willing to use force.
8. Warning Signs
Dogs often exhibit warning signs before displaying overt aggression. These can include lip licking, yawning, ears pinned back, whale-eye (wide-eyed with the whites of the eyes visible), or a tucked tail.
Conclusion
It's important to note that interpreting signs of aggression in dogs should be done by a trained professional, such as a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviourist. Aggression can be complex and may require a comprehensive assessment of the dog's behaviour, medical history, and environment to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate management or training plan. If you have concerns about your dog's aggression, it's best to seek professional help for a proper evaluation and guidance.
Key Practical Tips for Safe Handling of Dogs
Introduce dogs gradually to new environments
Keep dogs on leashes during introductions
Recognise and respond to early warning signs
Separate high-risk groups (e.g., intact males, nursing females)
Seek veterinary advice for persistent aggression
Use appropriate restraint tools when necessary
References
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). (2020). Animal handling and restraint guidelines.
Beaver, B. V. (2009). Canine behaviour: Insights and answers. Saunders.
Duffy, D. L., Hsu, Y., & Serpell, J. A. (2008). Breed differences in canine aggression. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 114(3–4), 441–460.
Horwitz, D., & Mills, D. (2009). BSAVA manual of canine and feline behavioural medicine. BSAVA.
Landsberg, G., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (2013). Behaviour problems of the dog and cat. Saunders.
McGreevy, P., & Boakes, R. (2011). Carrots and sticks: Principles of animal training. Cambridge University Press.
Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of clinical behavioural medicine for dogs and cats. Elsevier.
Yin, S. (2009). Low-stress handling, restraint and behaviour modification of dogs & cats. CattleDog Publishing.
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