Why do dogs suffer from fear aggression?
It is not fully understood why some dogs are fear aggressive and, under similar circumstances, and others aren’t. Typically, dogs that are fear aggressive towards other dogs have not been properly socialised as pups. They may have had a checkered history of insufficient or inappropriate early socialisation experiences. Some dogs may also be genetically predisposed to respond in this manner. Dogs that are fearful but not aggressive are the shrinking violets of the dog world, they usually hide, rollover or urinate. In order for fear to be manifested as aggression, a component of dominance is necessary. Some dogs bite only when cornered/frightened. Others will attack first, ask questions later. Fear aggression expressed towards other dogs, facts to remember: • It can be directed towards certain types of dog eg same sex, large breeds, overly energetic etc. • Can be directed towards all unfamiliar dogs. • Location does not matter. Fear aggressive dogs will react whether in familiar surround
