AGGRESSION, FEAR AND REACTIVITY
All behavior has a purpose. In the case of aggression, the purpose is usually to neutralize a threat. Fear aggression is the most common type of aggression. Even dogs who are barking/lunging/growling/jumping (clients usually call this "going Cujo") toward a perceived threat are usually reacting due to fear, anxiety or stress. Teaching dogs that their triggers are not scary is a big part of fixing the problem. If your dog "goes Cujo" around triggers, a first step to fixing it is to avoid adding tension and stress to the situation. Most of us immediately stiffen, stare in the same direction as the dog and hold on tight to the leash when our dogs react. Instead, breathe deeply and start moving away from the trigger.
Many people end up trying to "correct" the problem by using tools meant to stop it by force. These tools (like pinch, choke and shock collars) add discomfort or pain to an already stressful event. At the same time, the dog's most trusted friend is now angry and hurting her. The situation can quickly spiral out of control. Sometimes it looks like punishment is working and the behavior stops for a time. Unfortunately, it is likely to resurface when the dog can no longer take the strain of all the stressors. At this point, dogs can redirect their anger and frustration at their people, their companion dogs, strangers or unfamiliar dogs.
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Even without overt aggression involved, reactivity is not fun for us humans! It is embarrassing when our neighbors turn and go the other way. Walking a reactive dog is a chore, not a joy.
Many overly reactive dogs experience anxiety around their triggers and/or in general. These dogs are barking at everything. They may have their hackles up at the drop of a hat (literally). They are always vigilant, waiting for the next opportunity to announce themselves to the neighborhood. Wouldn't it be great to teach your dog to downshift?
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Fear, even when not accompanied by aggression, is hard on humans and dogs alike. At its worst, fearful dogs will not eat, or only eat late at night when the house is asleep. They may only be afraid of one person in the house which causes stress for their humans. They may pee or poop inside when there is a loud noise or a stranger approaches. At its best, the companion you thought would be your traveling buddy will not willingly leave your house and will shake with tail tucked when you make them.
