The word ‘aggression’ has different meanings and is used in many different ways. But in the dog world we use it when a dog is in a bad state of mind, example; a dog that is aggressive to everyone.
Aggression in the dog world is considered “an intent to harm” human or animal. It is shown by body language, bark, growl or flight (lunging towards object). There are many theories to how aggression is started, but one that we can all agree on is that it is not a genetic form in a dog. Aggression is a man-made behavior and is something we in the animal community should take very seriously.
When a dog is aggressive you want to pinpoint the reasons. A dog can come from an abusive household, or there is not sufficient exercise - therefore there is no release of energy. It can also come from a trauma from another dog, or from a person who trains the dog to be aggressive. Just like fear, aggression is another issue that is difficult to train out of a dog. It is important to deal with it promptly before it becomes is uncontrollable. A professional should be consulted before you or others may be hurt.
Dog trainers and animal behaviorists have something called the “breed standard”, meaning certain breeds such as bully breeds or terriers already have a “predisposition.” This hurts many popular breeds like the Pit bull Terrier, or Bull Terrier, because these two breeds are very high energy and can be prone to bad behavior. Bad behavior can be prevented by working your dog mentally and physically.
In the animal world there is no such thing as a breed standard. Every dog has a different personality and any dog can be aggressive if there is no structure, rules or boundaries. By creating structure, rules and boundaries to every dog, you will have an overall good dog and also one who listens and is trustworthy around other dogs and humans. By not creating structure, rules and boundaries you will have a frustrated dog because there is no release for their energy, therefore the dog will misbehave both on or off-leash.
If you have more than one dog in your house, you have a pack. Therefore you must follow pack rules. Some trainers and behaviorists don't follow these rules because they believe in what is called ‘Alpha Dog Behavior’.
The meaning of alpha dog does not mean a pack leader. An alpha dog is a dominant dog; whether it is male or female. This term is often used figuratively. If you have an alpha dog, you have a dog that will show dominant behavior. There are many professionals who think this is ok; in actuality, it is not because it is only showing how to be dominant and aggressive. Pack leaders are those who guide others to safety or proper behavior. Pack rules are simple-don't dominate your pack by putting yourself in an alpha position as this will only cause aggressive behavior among the pack. There needs to be calm leadership, which will, in turn guide them to behave.
Ultimately, being a pack leader means to guide your pack, not dominate them. Any form of aggression can escalate, so it is important to consult a professional when you are beyond your level of comfort.
Rayner Pacheco Canine behaviorist T-trainers
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