Curbing Dog Aggression in Public
The outside world can be a wonderful place for dogs. It’s full of stimulating sights, smells and experiences that make for a happy, well-adjusted dog. However, problems often crop up in public, because dogs generally behave more aggressively on leash.

A dog on leash can’t move freely. If he encounters something that spooks him, he can’t get away. He feels cornered and figures the only option is to go on the offensive.

A lot of people can’t resist petting unfamiliar dogs. It’s an understandable urge for dog lovers, but an unwise practice, particularly if the dog is leashed or tied outside a store while his owner is inside. Never touch an unfamiliar dog without the owner’s permission. Even then, you should let the dog come to you.

Another cause of on-leash problems is the fact that dogs are extremely social. In the wild, they’re pack animals, remember. When your dog sees another dog, he can’t wait to approach, investigate and interact. But the leash restricts his mobility. He gets frustrated and agitated, which can lead to on-leash barking and lunging that are the bane of so many dog owners.

Threatening behavior on leash can be a sign of serious aggression. But if your dog generally gets along well with other dogs, all that commotion when he’s on leash is probably a form of frustration. Even dogs that are mild mannered off leash can act up when they’re leashed. You can minimize the problem by letting your dog meet friendly dogs, with the other owner’s permission, of course.

Avoid encounters where one dog is on leash and the other is off leash. The combination of a free dog and a leased dog can be a powder keg, because the leashed dog may feel threatened or trapped. If your dog is on leash and an unleashed dog approaches, ask the owner politely but firmly to leash the other dog right away.

Make sure your dog gets plenty of opportunities for free play in areas where off-leash dogs are allowed. Dogs that don’t get enough canine playtime are more likely to be fearful and aggressive toward other dogs.

Regular dog play not only helps prevent aggressive behavior, it also builds confidence, burns off pent up energy and provides a vital outlet for your dog’s powerful instinct to socialize with other dogs. Not to mention that it’s just plain fun.

Moreover, free play hones basic canine social skills. Dogs actually teach one another how to play without going over the top. A young or inexperienced dog may initially come on too strong with his canine friends. By playing with well-socialized adult dogs, he will learn the complex body language and vocalizations that guide appropriate dog interaction.

Don’t worry if dog play seems intense. Intensity doesn’t necessarily mean aggression. Dogs play hard, and they’re often noisy. Minor skirmishes are normal and usually end quickly, without human intervention. Just make sure things don’t get out of hand.

If your dog becomes too rough or threatening, give him a time-out. Think of it like a “game misconduct” penalty in hockey. Play is a reward, and your dog will learn to work for it by behaving appropriately.

If your dog provokes serious fights or draws blood, intervene immediately. Consult a trainer or behaviorist for positive reinforcement exercises to correct the problem.

Last but not least, your dog should be spayed or neutered. Neutered males are less likely to stir up trouble with other male dogs. There are other benefits, as well. Altered dogs are healthier, less likely to roam and less inclined to bite.

Reprinted With Permission
of the San Francisco SPCA

Back to Behavioral Index