Does my dog suffer from fear-based reactivity and aggression?
Fear-based reactivity and aggression in dogs is a defensive reaction triggered by fear, anxiety, or insecurity. When a dog perceives a threat - whether real or imagined - it may react aggressively as a way to protect itself. This type of aggression often stems from past trauma, lack of (proper) socialisation, or negative experiences with people, animals, or specific situations.
Signs of Fear-Based Aggression:
Does your dog growl, bark, or snap when approached by strangers or other animals?
Does your dog try to hide, back away, or show signs of fear (tucked tail, pinned ears, whale eye) before becoming aggressive?
Does your dog only show aggression in specific situations (e.g. vet visits, being cornered, sudden noises, or new places)?
Has your dog ever bitten out of fear rather than dominance or resource guarding?
Does your dog seem more reactive on a lead or when feeling restrained?
Possible Causes:
Was your dog under (or over) socialised as a puppy?
Has your dog had a traumatic experience (e.g., abuse, attack, harsh punishment)?
Does your dog become aggressive only when afraid, rather than in general situations?
If you answered YES to several of these, your dog might be dealing with fear-based aggression. This is a serious issue that profoundly impacts your dog’s welfare and safety (and that of those around them). The best way to confirm is by arranging a formal behaviour assessment with a properly qualified animal behaviourist as soon as possible. You can book an assessment with Padfoot’s Principal Animal Behaviourist by clicking here. We have options available for in-person or remote assessments for those further afield.
How to Manage Fear-Based Aggression:
Identify Triggers: Observe what situations or stimuli provoke the aggression.
Avoid Punishment: Punishing a fearful dog can escalate aggression and worsen trust issues.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise to create positive associations.
Desensitisation & Counterconditioning: Gradually expose the dog to triggers in a controlled way while rewarding relaxed behaviour. Make sure you have completed a behaviour assessment beforehand to ensure that this is the right option for your individual dog.
Professional Training: Padfoot Animal Behaviour can help create a structured plan built around your dog’s specific needs.
Veterinary Support: Some dogs may benefit from anxiety medications or supplements under a vet’s guidance. Your behaviourist can advise if this is a good option for your dog.
Fear-based aggression requires patience and consistency. With proper training and a supportive environment however, many dogs can improve significantly.
From group training classes to problem canine behaviour solutions, walk, play and trains to private appointments, and snake avoidance courses to canine myofunctional therapy sessions, Padfoot is the Sunshine Coast’s most trusted applied animal behaviour practice. We’re the team your dog would choose. And we look forward to meeting them soon!
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