Dogs can be aggressive toward other dogs for various reasons including lack of proper socialization during their early weeks, fear, frustration, territorial instincts, pain, or differing communication styles between dogs. Dogs not socialized well during the first 16 weeks of life may become fearful or uncomfortable with unfamiliar dogs, leading to aggression. Sometimes aggression is rooted in frustration, such as when a dog cannot reach another dog due to a barrier like a leash or fence, which can cause "leash aggression." Pain or discomfort can also provoke aggression, as can breed or sex-specific tendencies, possessiveness over resources, or miscommunication during interactions. Some dogs show aggression out of fear, offering offense as the best defense, while others may be aggressive due to learned behavior reinforced over time. Understanding the underlying motivation for the aggression is essential for appropriate intervention.
Aggression can also be influenced by medical conditions or medications, traumatic experiences, or a lack of positive experiences with other dogs. A dog may show aggression due to fear, jealousy, or innate tendencies, but it is often treatable through behavior modification and training with the help of professionals.
Key types of aggression towards other dogs include fear-based aggression, frustration-based aggression, territorial aggression, possessive aggression, predatory aggression, and pain-elicited aggression. Proper veterinary examination and behavioral assessment by a specialist are recommended to determine the cause and suitable treatment for a dog’s aggression toward other dogs.
In summary, aggression toward other dogs can arise from multiple causes, and addressing it involves understanding the specific triggers and motivations behind the behavior, often requiring professional guidance and possibly medical evaluation.
