Should you adopt a rescue dog or purchase one from a breeder? This dilemma is likely to engage the minds of many who are on the verge of raising a paw companion.
Our experience shows that rescue dogs can develop very strong bonds with their humans and astonish them with their great learning skills and loyalty. It is not uncommon for rescue dogs to become wonderful service dogs whose assistance is life-changing!
Unfortunately, due to factors such as past negative experiences and time spent in shelters, some rescue dogs develop unwanted behaviors. Showing signs of aggression can be one of those unwanted behaviors, new owners are usually concerned about.
While it is understandable to be skeptical about the future integration of a rescue dog with behavioral issues into the family and society, you should not lose hope! With patience, understanding, proper training, and much love, many behavioral issues can be managed effectively!
In this article, we will explore the causes of aggressive behavior in rescue dogs, how to recognize them, and the steps you can take to address it. We hope the provided information will help you turn your rescue paw friend into a confident, happy, and well-mannered family member!
Causes of Aggressive Behavior in Rescue Dogs
To properly address a specific problem, we need to know the causes of it, and aggressive behavior in rescues is no exception to the rule.
Fear and Anxiety due to Trauma and Abuse
Trauma and abuse are among the most common causes of aggressive behavior in rescue dogs! They also have the most significant impact on the dog’s physical and mental health and overall well-being.
Sadly, many rescue dogs are exposed to harsh conditions in their past, including physical abuse, emotional neglect, or abandonment. Such traumatic experiences can have a long-lasting negative effect on the dog’s well-being and contribute to developing unwanted behaviors in the future, such as aggression.
Aggression occurs as a form of a defense mechanism. For instance, a dog who was beaten by a previous owner might become aggressive when a new owner raises their hand, even if they intend to pet them. The dog may perceive this gesture as a threat and react aggressively to protect themselves.
When it comes to emotional abuse- it usually stems from isolation or constant exposure to fear-inducing situations. As you know, dogs are social creatures who thrive on routine, companionship, and positive reinforcement (encouraging wanted behaviors instead of punishing the unwanted ones). If a dog’s need for love, socialization, and routine are not met, they will likely develop unwanted behaviors such as anxiety, and depression, and may even show signs of aggression.
Abandonment is another form of neglect / emotional abuse that contributes to developing severe behavioral issues in the future. Canines, who have been abandoned, often struggle with trust issues.
They may become aggressive as a way to cope with the fear of being left alone again. This aggression can not only be directed toward their owners but also other pets in the household and even objects. That way a dog can establish control over their environment, which, in turn, helps avoid trauma in the future.
Lack of Socialization
Proper socialization is an essential yet sometimes neglected aspect of responsible raising and training a dog! Socialization starting from a young age is essential for helping a canine become a healthy, well-mannered, and confident adult dog!
Dogs who have not been socialized properly, during this critical stage in particular, often have difficulties interacting with other animals and people. Also, they are more likely to encounter challenges to adapt to new environments.
Improper socialization can cause fear of new situations and environments, which may turn into aggression. This is particularly valid for dogs who lack coping mechanisms to deal with new experiences.
A quick example- if a dog has never been exposed to a specific group of people, e.g. children, they may become aggressive when faced with their unpredictable movements and high energy levels.
Furthermore, if a dog has been raised in rural areas and lacks exposure to crowded areas with many distractions like traffic, noises, smells, etc., they may not handle the experience in a big city very well.
Talking about socialization and exposure to new environments, it is essential to make sure your dog’s environment provides sufficient opportunities for physical, and mental stimulation and gradual exposure to different factors. This is crucial for dogs, who are trained as service animals!
Resource Guarding
Resource guarding is a common behavioral issue in dogs, which can be directed towards their food, toys, territory, and even owners. Usually, it occurs when a dog feels they need to protect their valuable resources. Unfortunately, this type of protective behavior can easily escalate to aggression.
Resource guarding has its roots in evolution and can be traced to their survival instincts. Even when dogs are already domesticated, this behavior can occur in certain environments. For instance, if a rescue dog had to fight for their meal in a crowded shelter, they might growl or even snap when their new owner approaches their food bowl.
Resource guarding can be displayed by dogs who have developed a sense of ownership, usually as a result of having very few belongings in their previous homes.
Last, but not least, we need to mention a situation that many owners might have encountered- resource guarding towards them. If a dog perceives a new person or animal as a threat to their relationship with their owner, they may exhibit aggressive behavior to protect that bond. This can involve growling, snapping, or even biting when someone approaches the owner.
Medical Issues
Medical conditions are often overlooked as a cause of aggressive behavior in dogs. However, it is important to note that pain, discomfort, and any underlying health conditions can significantly impact a dog’s behavior.
Dogs in chronic pain, whether from arthritis, dental issues, or undiagnosed injuries, may become irritable and prone to aggression.
Certain neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, or sensory issues can also alter a dog’s behavior, making them more prone to aggression.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior, such as deviations from their standard energy levels, appetite, mobility, or affection towards you, make sure to consult a veterinarian. Should the examination rules out any underlying health conditions, you might then want to proceed with behavioral management.
Signs of Aggressive Behavior
It is essential to recognize the signs of aggression in a (rescue) dog early so you can address the issue promptly. We will list below some common signs that may indicate a dog is about to display aggression:
Growling / Snarling
These types of vocalizations are often used as warning signs indicating a dog is feeling uncomfortable or even threatened.
Rigid Body Posture
If a dog’s body is stiff and tense, their ears are put back, and their hackles raised, this is an obvious sign the dog is alert and may become aggressive.
Lunging
This behavior often accompanies barking and growling and indicates the dog is ready to attack.
Baring Teeth
A canine showing their teeth, especially in combination with any of the signs listed above, is also an indicator that they are on high alert and may exhibit aggressive behavior.
How to Manage Aggressive Behavior?
Dealing with aggressive behavior in dogs, and rescue dogs in particular, requires not only the right approach but also environmental management, patience, and consistency.
Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning
These are two of our favorite training approaches, as they are great in shaping a dog’s behavior and helping them overcome their fear and agitation towards stimuli in the environment.
These techniques involve gradually exposing the dog to the triggers causing aggression by starting at a very low level in a controlled environment free of distractions. If the dog does not show any reaction, they receive a reward, usually their favorite treat. For dogs, who are not food-motivated, toys, petting, and praise come in handy!
These approaches aim to change the dog’s attitude towards the stimuli by pairing them with positive outcomes.
When applying them to the training process, it is crucial to take small steps, practice frequently, and observe the dog’s response. If they become frustrated and show signs of aggression, the intensity of the stimuli should be reduced so that no reaction follows. You should wait for the dog to calm down before resuming the training.
The intensity of the stimuli should be increased step by step as the dog progresses. For example, as they become more comfortable, you might reduce the distance to other dogs. You should monitor any interaction with other animals or new people and make sure there won’t be direct confrontation if your paw friend becomes stressed or agitated.
We highly advise you to not reward your canine if they are fearful or aggressive, as this will only worsen the issue. Make sure they are calm in the presence of the triggers when they receive a reward.
Environmental Management
Environmental management is also mandatory in addressing behavioral issues in dogs, as it encompasses a wide range of strategies that aim to create a safe, structured, and stress-reducing environment.
You should set up a specific area where your rescue paw friend feels secure and relaxed, free from potential triggers of aggression. These can be designated areas like rooms, or areas with minimal foot traffic. It is recommended to arrange their safe zone in a way that minimizes exposure to triggers. For example, if your paw friend is reactive to people walking by outside, position their safe zone away from windows.
Using baby gates, exercise pens, or crates can also help in controlling where the dog can go. This limits their exposure to stressful or triggering environments, like areas with lots of noise or unfamiliar people. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, exposure to stimuli should happen gradually, so if you are not sure your rescue dog can handle aggression-inducing triggers at the current point of their training progress, the items listed above can definitely come in handy.
Last but not least, consider removing potential hazards to ensure the environment is free from objects that could be perceived as threats, for example, sharp objects.
Environmental Enrichment
Environmental enrichment can be considered a component of environmental management. However, we will list it separately to better clarify its specific elements.
Dogs, especially those with negative past experiences, should be provided with activities and toys that engage them in a positive way. Interactive toys, chew items, cozy blankets, and pieces of clothing with your scent will help reduce stress and, thus the likelihood of displaying aggressive behaviors.
Additionally, you might consider using calming aids like essential oils (only those safe for dogs such as lavender, chamomile, ginger, cedar wood, and frankincense), giving your dog a good massage, or playing them classic music (also reggae or soft rock) for a calming effect.
Exercise
Regular exercise is a great way to help a rescue dog manage aggression, as it can alleviate stress, and help the canine burn off excess energy.
Daily walks (at least two per day, each lasting 30 minutes to an hour based on the dog’s age, breed, and specific needs) can greatly help your paw partner burn off energy. It is recommended to start with shorter walks if your dog is not used to regular exercise and gradually increase the duration.
Incorporating play sessions into your routine will not only help your rescue dog remain physically and mentally fit but will also contribute to developing trust and a strong bond between you. Examples of games that your doggo might enjoy are fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek.
Along with playing with your dog, you might consider training them as well, as learning new commands and tricks will not only provide mental stimulation but also strengthen the bond between you and them. Training can help improve their behavior, teach them routine and discipline, and increase their confidence.
Proper Socialization
Socialization is a crucial aspect of a dog’s development and overall well-being, that can help address unwanted behaviors, including aggression.
The goal of socializing a dog with other dogs is to expose them to a variety of behaviors, body language, and social interactions in a controlled manner. This will help the dog pick up on other dog’s social cues and learn appropriate ways to interact. This will reduce the likelihood of fear, anxiety, or aggression in new situations.
It is important to remember, though, that interactions should be positive, so you should choose calm and well-mannered dogs to socialize your rescue dog with. You should observe these interactions and avoid forcing them. Your dog may make fast friends with other dogs that have similar energy levels.
Remember to give your canine time to adjust to the presence of other dogs. As they become more comfortable, you can gradually introduce new environments and situations.
Routine and Clear Rules
When dogs know their role and what is expected of them, they are more likely to feel safe and confident in their environment. The sense of structure helps reduce anxiety and prevent behavioral issues, including aggression.
It is crucial that you and your family members are on the same page when it comes to the dog’s routine, rules, and boundaries. Make sure to be consistent in your approach, as different rules applied by your family members will confuse your dog and potentially lead to behavioral issues.
By maintaining consistency and clarity in setting boundaries, and clear rules, you can help your paw friend feel more comfortable and secure. A structured approach strengthens the bond between the dog and their owners and helps reduce unwanted behaviors.
Veterinary Care
If you have any doubts that your dog’s aggression is due to pain or an underlying health condition, you should visit your veterinarian as soon as possible!
Do not neglect annual check-ups and do not hesitate to consult a vet at any time you notice abrupt changes in your dog’s behavioral patterns, including lack of appetite, and energy, or have any concerns regarding their well-being.
As you have learned from today’s article, aggressive behavior in rescue dogs is a complex issue. However, it can be managed by using the right approach, being patient, consistent. We can assure you that your effort and hard work will pay off and make a significant difference in your furry friend’s life!
